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New Zealand Experience
- Duration
- 18 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,815
Experience the glorious natural landscape of New Zealand on this journey across the nation. Venturing from Christchurch on the South Island to Auckland on the North Island, you’ll experience many of the nation’s highlights, from the fjords of Milford Sound to the geothermal pools of Rotorua to the adventure capital of Queenstown.
This 18-day New Zealand vacation takes you south to north to explore the country. It includes first-class accommodations, escorted tours, and allows travellers the freedom to choose which excursions they wish to take each day.
Your New Zealand tour begins in Christchurch, the nation’s Garden City and its most English. After getting your bearings and perhaps visiting the famous Botanical Gardens, cross the Canterbury Plains to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd before reaching Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park to hike alongside the icebergs on Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. Continue onto the shores of Lake Pukaki and head to Omaru to see the Moeraki Boulders, stunning spherical boulders scattered along the coastline of Koekohe Beach. In Dunedin, you’ll admire the city’s Victorian architecture and visit nearby animal colonies to see albatrosses, sea lions, and yellow-eyed penguins.
Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Spend a day delving beneath the earth to explore limestone caves illuminated by glowworms, or cruise across Doubtful Sound, the stunning and massive fjord that cuts through the green mountains. The next day, see Doubtful Sound’s more famous cousin, Milford Sound, the most popular tourist attraction in the country. Cruise along Milford Sound and gaze up at Mitre Peak, which crowns the fjord and is the most photographed sight in the country.
Turn northeast and head to Queenstown, the nation’s adventure capital. If you’re in need of an adrenaline kick, this is the place to get it. You can head on a jet boat adventure across Lake Wakatipu, bungee jump off a bridge overhanging a canyon, or bike through the picturesque hillsides. Queenstown is also great for more tranquil travellers; stroll by the lake, enjoy a round of golf, or visit nearby wineries while soaking in the lovely natural environment.
Turn northeast and continue past Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea on route to Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where you’ll reach Franz Josef Glacier, one of the country’s most impressive glacial formations. Marvel at the ice formations of this massive glacier and ride along the TranzAlpine train through the Southern Alps, enjoying one of the world’s best train journeys. Return to Christchurch and follow the eastern coastline to Kaikoura. Pass through the Marlborough region and reach Blenheim, where you’ll enjoy the region’s best food and drink with a Highlights of Marlborough Dinner. In Blenheim, you’ll have the chance to tour the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, visit local wineries, or cruise along the Marlborough Sounds.
Cross the Cook Strait and reach Wellington, the nation’s capital pitched on the southern edge of the North Island. Take a tour of the city sights to see Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum, and Weta Workshop, where the movie magic of The Lord of the Rings trilogy was conjured. Drive northeast and cross the Rimutaka Ranges to reach Napier, which is defined by its gorgeous Art Deco architecture. Continue north and pass through the Esk Valley and Te Pohue on route to Rotorua, the nation’s geothermal wonderland. On your first night in the city, enjoy a Hangi feast to get in touch with the nation’s Maori traditions. The next day, enjoy the famous sheep show at the Agrodome before venturing to Te Puia Thermal Reserve to see the bubbling mud pools, hot springs, and geysers that define Rotorua.
Continue to Matamata to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set and indulge your fandom for The Lord of the Rings. Pass through the Waikato farmland and eventually reach Auckland, the final stop on your journey through New Zealand. Auckland is the nation’s largest city and a natural marvel. It sits on a narrow isthmus between two massive natural harbours, meaning that you’ll enjoy beautiful sights of the ocean no matter which way you look. In Auckland, you’ll cruise across Waitemata Harbour for the best views of this attractive city or visit Waiheke Island for some wine and olive oil tastings. You can also journey to the Waitakere Rainforest to explore an ancient landscape of waterfalls and forest. At the end of your journey, head to the airport to connect back home.
- Duration
- 18 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,815
Itinerary View Trip Map
Arrive Christchurch
On arrival, be met at the airport and transfer to your hotel where you have the afternoon to relax. Tonight, see the city sights of Christchurch on board a heritage tram while enjoying drinks and canapes as you step back in time to a grand era of transport
| Meal Plan | 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
Photo 1 of 1
Christchurch, Aoraki Mt Cook
Today you'll traverse the Canterbury plains to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo, before journeying into Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to view Australasia's highest mountain, Aoraki (Mt Cook). This afternoon, you may join a guided nature walk. Alternatively, during the summer months, board a MAC boat and discover icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. Perhaps visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, or a visit to the planetarium with a stargazing session with an astronomer.
| 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, Dunedin
Set out along the shores of Lake Pukaki to Oamaru. Continue to Koekohe Beach to view the unusual spherical-shaped Moeraki Boulders. Arrive in Dunedin late afternoon and enjoy time at leisure before dinner.
| 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, Te Anau
Begin your day with your choice of sightseeing activity. Perhaps visit Olveston Historic Home, the historic home of a wealthy merchant family built in the early 1900s. Or discover the history of Larnach Castle, nestled on the stunning Otago Peninsula. Alternatively, those who enjoy a beer may choose to visit Speight's Brewery for a tasting. Afterwards, absorb the breathtaking scenery as you travel to the lakeside settlement of Te Anau.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| 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
Waking in Te Anau this morning, decide how to spend your day thanks to the range of Freedom of Choice activities on offer. Perhaps you may like to explore an underground network of limestone caves, magically lit by thousands of glow worms. Alternatively, you may prefer to set off on an inspiring wilderness cruise on Doubtful Sound. Or, take an exciting jet boat ride along the Upper Waiau River to get the heart pumping.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown
This morning, wind down the Milford Road, through the Eglinton and Hollyford valleys. Continue to Milford Sound where you will cruise along the full length of this fiord deep within Fiordland National Park. After, Queenstown awaits.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Millennium Hotel Queenstown |
| Location | View map |
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Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Whether staying for business or pleasure this hotel has something for everyone to enjoy. The Millennium Hotel Queenstown is located in the heart of Queenstown close to the central shopping, entertainment areas and minutes from various other outdoors activities such as bungee jumping, white water …
Whether staying for business or pleasure this hotel has something for everyone to enjoy. The Millennium Hotel Queenstown is located in the heart of Queenstown close to the central shopping, entertainment areas and minutes from various other outdoors activities such as bungee jumping, white water rafting and jet boating. All of the 220 rooms and suites have been created with touches of luxury and have an atmosphere of relaxation.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Concierge
- Conference Facilities
- Currency Exchange
- Daycare/Babysitting Service
- Express Check In/Out
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Massage Treatments
- Parking
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Spa
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
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Queenstown
Today you can discover Queenstown your own way with the included Freedom of Choice sightseeing activities available. Movie buffs may like to visit key The Lord of the Rings trilogy filming locations on a Safari of the Scenes tour. Alternatively, set out on a Skippers Canyon adventure following the Shotover River Valley on an exciting 4WD tour. Others may prefer a leisurely cruise on Lake Wakatipu or a wine tour through the wineries of the Central Otago wine region. Later, select from a number of restaurants during a Freedom of Choice Dining evening where you can get a taste for New Zealand's South Island's cuisine.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|
Queenstown
Immerse yourself in beautiful Queenstown with a full day at leisure. You may like to take a relaxing stroll along the tranquil shores of Lake Wakatipu, or take part in the thrill of a lifetime in this adventurous city.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Queenstown, Franz Josef Glacier
Skirt the shores of lakes Wanaka and Hawea. Cross Haast Pass into Westland Tai Poutini National Park, then continue to Franz Josef, where you will take in the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier. Arrive later at your luxury eco-resort for a special four-course dinner.
| 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, TranzAlpine Train, Christchurch
Seize the day and board New Zealand's famous TranzAlpine train to experience one of the world's greatest rail journeys. Enjoy stunning views from the open-air viewing platform as you pass by the striking patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains, through deep gorges and river valleys. Follow the Waimakariri River and travel across the Southern Alps all the way to Christchurch.
| 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
Photo 1 of 1
Christchurch, Kaikoura, Blenheim
This morning, follow the east coast to Kaikoura, before traversing the Marlborough region to Blenheim. Tonight, local chefs will present each dish before you, showcasing superb local artisan produce, perfectly paired with wines from the region. Indulge in the finest flavours as you savour a Highlights of Marlborough Dinner. An exciting experience, the unique fusion of quality produce and ethnic influences have helped shape New Zealand's food and wine culture as amongst one of the best in the world.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Scenic Hotel Marlborough Blenheim |
| Location | View map |
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Scenic Hotel Marlborough Blenheim
A recent multi-million dollar renovation has left this contemporary property sparkling with style and comfort. Located in the heart of sunny Marlborough, the hotel is just minutes walk from the centre of Blenheim and puts some of New Zealand's finest food and wine virtually on …
A recent multi-million dollar renovation has left this contemporary property sparkling with style and comfort. Located in the heart of sunny Marlborough, the hotel is just minutes walk from the centre of Blenheim and puts some of New Zealand's finest food and wine virtually on your doorstep. Scenic Hotel Marlborough offers guests the ultimate in modern comfort and service. You're sure to feel refreshed with a visit to Scenic Hotel Marlborough.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Parking (for Self Park)
- Pool (s)
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Spa(Hot-tub)/Jacuzzi
Photo gallery
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Blenheim
Enjoy your selected sightseeing activity. Perhaps embark on a tour of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre; enjoy the sheer beauty of Marlborough Sounds during a greenshell mussel cruise; or choose to visit some of the region's best wineries for wine tastings in the countryside.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Blenheim, Picton, Wellington
This morning, cruise across Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry. You'll traverse the stunning waters of Marlborough and Queen Charlotte sounds while taking in breathtaking surrounds. This afternoon, take part in a fascinating city sights tour of Wellington.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| 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
Photo 1 of 5
Wellington, Napier
Today you'll drive through the Rimutaka Ranges en route to Napier. On arrival, discover the city of Napier on an Art Deco tour.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Scenic Hotel Te Pania Napier |
| Location | View map |
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Scenic Hotel Te Pania Napier
The hotel features 109 fully air-conditioned superior rooms and suites with modern decor. Savour the delights of Hawke's Bay with excellent dining at The Exchange Bar and Brasserie, which highlights local food and wine and offers indoor and al fresco dining. The Hotels convenient, central …
The hotel features 109 fully air-conditioned superior rooms and suites with modern decor. Savour the delights of Hawke's Bay with excellent dining at The Exchange Bar and Brasserie, which highlights local food and wine and offers indoor and al fresco dining. The Hotels convenient, central location means many of Napier's best local attractions are within a few minutes' walk.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Parking (for Self Park)
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 5
Napier, Taupo, Rotorua
Today, journey through Esk Valley and Te Pohue, stopping at the charming town of Taupo. Later, travel to Rotorua, where this evening you'll immerse yourself in Maori culture as you enjoy a traditional Hangi Feast and performance.
| 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
Photo 1 of 4
Rotorua
This morning, it's time to explore Rotorua on your selected sightseeing activity. Perhaps enjoy a sheep show at the Agrodome followed by a visit to Te Puia Thermal Reserve. Choose to visit Wai-O-Tapu or experience Middle-earth during a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set. The evening is yours at leisure to further explore.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Rotorua, Auckland
This morning, travel through Waikato's farmland to Auckland. Afterwards, enjoy your selected sightseeing activity. Perhaps cruise on Waitemata Harbour; enjoy a unique All Blacks experience; visit Auckland Zoo to discover the native flora and fauna of New Zealand; or immerse yourself in a Make Believe 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 | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Crowne Plaza Auckland |
| Location | View map |
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Crowne Plaza Auckland
Crowne Plaza Auckland is located in the very heart of 'The City of Sails', superbly positioned in the entertainment and shopping hub of Auckland City. It is only a short stroll to Queen Street, Aotea Convention Centre, Sky Tower and the Viaduct Basin. Due to …
Crowne Plaza Auckland is located in the very heart of 'The City of Sails', superbly positioned in the entertainment and shopping hub of Auckland City. It is only a short stroll to Queen Street, Aotea Convention Centre, Sky Tower and the Viaduct Basin. Due to its unique design, the accommodation rooms start from level 16, ensuring many guest rooms provide excellent views over downtown Auckland.
Facilities
- Bellman/Porters
- Business Centre
- Concierge
- Currency Exchange
- Daycare/Babysitting Service
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Multi-lingual Staff
- Newsstand
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Secretarial Service
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 2
Auckland, Bay of Islands
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
2021: Jan 2, 16, 30; Feb 6, 13, 27; Mar 13; Apr 3; May 15; Sep 11
PRICE INCLUDES:
- 17 nights hand-picked accommodation
- Touring as per itinerary
- Finest dining - a total of 29 meals
- Arrival and departure airport transfers in New Zealand
- Travel aboard a spacious, luxurious coach
- Dedicated APT Tour Director and professional driver
- Luggage porterage
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 are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
15 May 2021
