Auckland - Coromandel Peninsula - Rotorua - Masterton - Wellington - Nelson - Greymouth - Christchurch
Travel on this Tranz Alpine Tour of New Zealand from Auckland into the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, then onto the thermal wonderland of Rotorua, try the option of whitewater rafting in Turangi before crossing to the South Island and onto Nelson. Discover the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and travel on the world famous Tranz Alpine train journey through the heart of the Southern Alps to finish in Christchurch. Highlights include Wellington, Lake Taupo, Waitomo Glow-worm caves, Rotorua Thermal reserves. Includes the option for a full day Abel Tasman National Park Tour.
Day 1. Arrive Auckland
On arrival, be met and transferred to your Auckland hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore.
Stay: Rydges Hotel (1 night).
Day 2. Auckland to Whangamata
A tour of Auckland, to the summit of Skytower, at 328 metres the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, the downtown city area and waterfront drive, then experience the thrill of sailing aboard a 12m yacht on Auckland Harbour and visiting the Maritime Museum, all before driving to the Coromandel Peninsula.
Stay: Breakers Motel (2 nights)
Day 3. Coromandel Peninsula
A day of fun and entertainment with Kiwi Dundee Adventures. Explore regenerating Kauri forest and lush fern groves, the old roads to Puketui an 1890's gold mining town and visit a gold mine studded with glowworms. Walk on isolated beaches and if conditions permit, a dip in the springs at Hotwater Beach.
Day 4. Whangamata to Rotorua
On to Rotorua and the Agrodome to see New Zealand's various sheep breeds and a shearing demonstration. Stroll through Rainbow Springs Park to see Rainbow and Brown Trout plus native birds and animals including the Kiwi. Take the spectacular Skyline Skyride for superb views over the city, lake and mountains and try a luge ride with our compliments. This evening enjoy a Maori Hangi (meal), a selection of traditionally prepared meats and vegetables plus more conventional dishes, all followed by a concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirring haka (entire group).
Stay: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua(1 night)
Day 5. Rotorua to Masterton
Visit Te Puia, the Maori Arts and Crafts Centre and Thermal Reserve with its boiling mud, silica terraces and Pohutu Geyser. Skirt some of the worlds largest pine forest to Wairakei where natural steam is harnessed to generate electricity, view the Huka Falls where the Waikato River pours through a narrow chasm and pause at Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. Skirt its shores to Turangi with time for trout fishing, many picturesque walks or if you are daring, white water rafting, before travelling on to Masterton.
Stay: Copthorne Solway Park Resort (1 night).
Day 6. Masterton to Wellington
Leaving your accommodation, head south to Greytown where you will pick up your local guide who will share stories, history and anecdotes of the area as you drive past lovely Victorian houses, gardens and orchards. At Featherston visit the 1860's historical farmhouse which is the base of family-owned company, Lavenders Green - a thriving, innovative cottage industry, making products from its own, and local, lemon orchards. Taste some of the delicious range of cordials, curds, fudge and mustards, as well as unique Schoc chocolate made in Greytown.
Return to Greytown for a closer look at the pretty township where there are plenty of boutiques and galleries as well as historical buildings to enjoy. Re-board the coach, and travel over the majestic Rimutaka Ranges to
Wellington. A city tour includes Mt Victoria, the Houses of Parliament, Wellington Cathedral and Oriental Bay with time to explore the city and Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, or an optional ride on the famous Cable Car.
Stay: Bay Plaza Hotel (1 night).
Day 7. Wellington to Nelson
Join the Interislander Ferry for a scenic cruise to the South Island with spectacular views of the City left behind. Sail across Cook Strait into the sheltered waters of Queen Charlotte Sound, bush clad hillsides remote bays and isolated holiday homes. In Picton, you are welcomed by your South Island Coach Captain. Explore Picton then drive to Blenheim for an afternoon's sightseeing that will highlight the Marlborough district's many scenic attractions and some of its world renowned wines. A visit will be made to Brancott Estate Winery for a complimentary tasting and winery tour. From this renowned wine region it's a fascinating drive to Nelson noted for its arts and crafts.
Stay: Leisure Lodge. (2 nights).
Day 8. Nelson
We recommend an optional day tour to the Abel Tasman National Park, inclusive of all transfers and a picnic lunch. By coach to Kaiteriteri then board a comfortable launch to cruise along the parks coastline. Either go ashore at Torrent Bay and walk 2 hours to Bark Bay or come ashore at Bark Bay and explore that area. From Bark Bay by launch, retrace your journey arriving in Nelson at 5.00pm. Alternatively, explore Nelson, follow the art trail, galleries and coffee shops featuring art, pottery, jewellery, wood and more or visit Tahunanui with its broad beaches and coastal panoramas..
Day 9. Nelson to Greymouth
Lush farmlands then forest covered ranges to the rugged Buller Gorge - a spectacular scenic drive. Visit Westport and the coast near Cape Foulwind, possibly lunch at the award winning Beach House Cafe and south to explore the Pancake rocks at Punakaiki. At Greymouth visit Jade Boulder Gallery to see native jade, mined in remote alpine valleys crafted into fine jewellery.to . On arrival you are transferred to Hotel Ashley with the remainder of the day at leisure.
Stay: Hotel Ashley (1 night).
Day 10. Greymouth to Christchurch
A morning to enjoy at leisure, visit Shantytown an 1860's mining town with steam train, horse drawn buggies and working gold claim, or explore the shops and galleries in town. A courtesy transfer is provided from hotel to train station to join the Tranz Alpine Train. Through rainforests and past Lake Brunner to Otira in the snowcapped Southern Alps. From Arthurs Pass follow the Waimakariri River and across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch.
Stay: Pavilions Hotel. (1 night)
Day 11. Depart Christchurch
This morning is yours to spend at leisure until your included departure transfer to the airport.
Back to Top
|
