Christchurch - Blenheim - Wellington - Rotorua - Waitomo - Auckland - Bay of Islands - Auckland
Begin this delightful North Island New Zealand Tours with the world famous Tranz Coastal train, follow the Pacific Coastline passing tiny holiday settlements and Kaikoura, famous for whale-watching. You will then visit the winery region of Blenheim before crossing the Queen Charlotte Sound to the North Island and New Zealand's capital - Wellington. Other highlights include Lake Taupo, Waitomo Glow-worm caves, Rotorua Thermal Reserves and the amazing Bay of Islands.
Day 1. Arrive Christchurch
On arrival, be met and transferred to your Christchurch hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore.
Stay: Pavilions Hotel (1 night).
Day 2. Christchurch to Blenheim
Join the Tranz Coastal train for a kaleidoscope of scenery across fertile Canterbury farmland through the Hundalee Ranges. Follow the Pacific coastline, with the Kaikoura mountains forming a rugged backdrop to the west, passing tiny holiday settlements and Kaikoura, famous for whale-watching. Arrive in Blenheim early afternoon. A short tour of the area includes a visit to Brancott Estate Winery. Enjoy a hosted tour of the winery, learn about and taste a range of the famous local Marlborough wines (purchase if you wish) followed by afternoon tea.
Stay: Scenic Hotel Marlborough (1 night).
Day 3. Blenheim to Wellington
Drive to Picton, nestled on the shores of the Marlborough Sounds, to board the Interislander ferry. Sail through picturesque Queen Charlotte Sound, sheltered waterways, remote bays and isolated holiday homes. Across Cook Strait and into Wellington Harbour for spectacular views of New Zealand's Capital City. A city tour will incorporate the summit of Mt Victoria for panoramic views of Wellington city and harbour, the Houses of Parliament and the distinctive "Beehive", Wellington Cathedral, city centre and Oriental Bay. Also explore the city yourself. Don't miss Te Papa, the "Museum of New Zealand" or take a ride on the famous Cable Car.
Stay: Bay Plaza Hotel (1 night).
Day 4. Wellington to Rotorua
Drive to Paekakariki with views of Kapiti Island and on a clear day, the South Island. Cross the Himitangi Plains, through the towns of Levin and Foxton to Bulls. Across rolling farmland to Tongariro National Park, dominated by the volcanic cone of Mt Ruapehu. Follow the Desert Road to Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake and famous for trout fishing. Stop at Huka Falls skirting massive pine forests to reach Rotorua, centre of Maori culture.
Stay: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (2 nights).
Day 5. Rotorua
A sightseeing tour visits the Agrodome for a display featuring New Zealand's various sheep breeds with a shearing demonstration. See pools of brown and rainbow trout at Rainbow Springs Park and even native birds including the Kiwi. The spectacular Skyline Gondola offers superb views over city, lake and mountains and for a little excitement, try a luge ride with our compliments.
Time for optional activities this afternoon before a Maori hangi (meal) with selection of traditionally prepared meats and vegetables plus conventional dishes, followed by a concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirring haka (entire group).
Day 6. Rotorua to Auckland
Cross the Mamaku Ranges to the Waikato region, noted for dairy farming and world famous horse studs. At Waitomo, a guide will escort your group underground to the limestone caverns and glow worm grotto.
On through Hamilton to Ngaruawahia, centre for the region's Maori people, then alongside the Waikato River before crossing the Bombay Hills to reach New Zealand's largest city - Auckland. A city tour will visit the summit of Skytower, at 328m the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere for superb city and harbour views, the downtown area and Waterfront Drive.
Stay: Rydges Hotel (1 night)
Day 7. Auckland to Bay of Islands
Cross Auckland's distinctive Harbour Bridge to drive north along the Hibiscus Coast, through Kawakawa to Paihia, where we meet our local Maori Guide, a descendant of the original settlers to the region, who will provide a comprehensive insight and history of the Bay of Islands before a visit to New Zealand's birthplace, Waitangi. A self guided tour through the famous Treaty House, the Maori Meeting House and giant war canoe.
This afternoon enjoy a launch cruise on the Bay crossing the areas world renowned game fishing grounds to the Cape Brett Lighthouse and famous "Hole in the Rock". Return through the inner islands with their beautiful sandy beaches, sparkling waters and marine life.
Stay: Tanoa Hotel Paihia (2 nights)
Day 8. Bay of Islands
A day free for you to relax and enjoy the many optional activities available. Your Coach Captain will happily assist with details. A full day Tour to Cape Reinga, New Zealand's northern most point and Ninety Mile Beach or explore historic Russell, New Zealand's first settlement and visit its original Church, Mission House and Museum.
Day 9. Bay of Islands to Auckland
South through the city of Whangarei to Warkworth passing the satellite tracking station. Auckland and its majestic harbour soon come into view and a tour will visit the summit of Skytower, at 328m the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, for panoramic views across the city and its two harbours, the Domain, the central city area, the Waterfront Drive with its numerous yacht marinas and nearby residential suburbs.
Stay: Rydges Hotel (1 night)
Day 10. Depart Auckland
This morning is yours to spend at leisure until your included departure transfer to the airport. (B)
Back to Top
|
