Auckland: Scenic Sights: Premier Escorted Vacation
- Duration
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 5,145
FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOURING: Beginning in Auckland in the North Island, travel south by coach exploring the best of New Zealand’s scenic sights including Waitomo Caves, Kaikoura, Franz Josef and Milford Sound.
See New Zealand at its most impressive on this 11 day trip from cosmopolitan Auckland to historic 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, the famous home of bubbling mudpools and spouting geysers. You’ll partake of a traditional Maori Hangi feast and cultural performance at Mitai Maori Village. Consider a soak in a thermal mineral pool or visit Rainbow Springs to meet some of the native animals and plants. A journey through Wairakei Steam Valley and across the volcanic plateau of Tongariro National Park takes you to Wellington. Choose your own itinerary for a day in New Zealand’s capital. It might include a visit to Karori Eco Sanctuary or even a Lord of the Rings tour.
Following a picturesque coastal journey to Christchurch, hop the TranzAlpine express to Franz Josef, the perfect base for exploring New Zealand’s Glacier country. 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 enjoy an included day trip to New Zealand’s most spectacular sight, Milford Sound, a breathtaking, 16km long fjord carved by glaciers out to the Tasman Sea. Keep a look out for seals, penguins and dolphins in these waters as you pass by majestic Mitre Peak. Enjoy stops at Mt Cook and LakeTekapo before your return to Christchurch.
- Duration
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 5,145
Itinerary View Trip Map
Arrive Auckland
Transfer to your hotel then set out on your selected activity. This evening, enjoy a special welcome dinner.
Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
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 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 | 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
Auckland, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua
Discover the Waitomo Caves on a guided boat ride through a grotto lit by the magical glow worms, 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
Rotorua
This morning after breakfast, it's time to explore Rotorua on your selected sightseeing activity. Afterwards, the afternoon and evening are free for you to explore.
Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
Perhaps experience one of New Zealand's best-loved attractions, the Agrodome, with its entertaining sheep shearing demonstration and dog trials, then visit the 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 to the heart of New Zealand's North Island this morning. View the Wairakei Steam Valley, then visit Huka Falls and Lake Taupo, before travelling across the plateau of Tongariro National Park to 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
Wellington
After breakfast, set off on a sightseeing tour of Wellington's best-loved landmarks and sights, including Mt Victoria, the waterfront area, and New Zealand's national museum -- Te Papa Tongarewa. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you please.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Wellington, Christchurch
This morning, travel to the South Island, to the quaint fishing town of Kaikoura before continuing along the central east coast all the way to Christchurch.
Signature Experience
Step aboard the Interislander ferry to cruise across Cook Strait and through Marlborough and Queen Charlotte sounds to Picton.
| 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
Christchurch, TranzAlpine Train, Franz Josef
Pass through epic river valleys and past awesome mountain ranges on the TranzAlpine Train, then disembark at Arthur's Pass and travel to Hokitika, where you will see pounamu (jade) being carved into pieces of jewellery. Continue to Franz Josef.
Signature Experience
Board the TranzAlpine train for one of the world's greatest rail adventures.
Signature Experience
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
Franz Josef, Queenstown
Enjoy a day of breathtaking scenery as you travel along the Haast River Valley to Queenstown. Tonight, enjoy a Freedom of Choice Dining evening.
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 | 3 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
Queenstown
Personalize your experience today with a range of Freedom of Choice activities.
Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
Choose your activity today. Visit The Lord of the Rings film locations, enjoy a cruise on Lake Wakatipu, take a Skippers Canyon adventure, join a river safari along Dart River, or enjoy a winery tour.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Milford Sound, Queenstown
Say goodbye to your tour director this morning, as you are given the freedom to explore New Zealand independently. Follow The Remarkable mountain range to Fiordland National Park. Continue to Milford Sound, where you'll enjoy a cruise that explores this pristine fiord.
Signature Experience
Cruise the full length of the pristine Milford Sound.
Return to Queenstown this evening.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Depart Queenstown
After breakfast this morning, your New Zealand adventure concludes.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
2023: Feb 11, 14, 20, 27; Mar 6, 13, 20; Apr 24; May 1, 8, 22; 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 4, 11, 18, 25; Apr 1, 8, 15, 29
May 13, 27; Jun10
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Experiences in 10 destinations
- Freedom of Choice inclusions in three locations
- The services of an expert APT tour director and driver
- 10 nights' hand-picked accommodation
- Finest dining -- a total of 16 meals
- Return airport transfers and porterage
- Prices are fully inclusive of all sightseeing
- Entrance fees
- Cruises
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes.
- Visa fees if applicable
- Meals and beverages not specifically indicated
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
This itinerary is valid for travel 10 Oct ’17 – 2 Oct ’18, travel outside these dates may follow a different itinerary. 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 enquire.
27 May 2024
