Days
16
Pricing From
$9699
Explore the diverse North and the majestic South in this 16 Day Ultimate Explorer small group coach tour of New Zealand. This tour features world-famous attractions like the Milford Sound, TranzAlpine scenic train journey, Interislander Ferry cruise, and so much more.
From the “Garden City” Christchurch, you will travel south towards Lake Tekapo to see its beautiful turquoise water before spending the night at the spectacular Mt Cook National Park. The following day, you will travel southeast to Dunedin where you will enjoy an informative city tour. Travel to Te Anau where you stay a night before visiting the magical Milford Sound for a relaxing cruise. Spend two nights in Queenstown, the country’s adventure capital. You will have a free day to explore its beautiful surroundings or have a go at adventurous activities like skydiving, jetboating, or bungy jumping. From Queenstown, you will travel to the west coast to see the twin Glaciers and then board the TranzAlpine Train back to Christchurch.
In the North Island, you will start your tour in Wellington after taking the Interislander Ferry from Picton. You will travel to Rotorua and learn about the fascinating culture of the Maori while enjoying the city’s geothermal wonders. Travel north to the subtropical Bay of Islands and cruise to the famous “Hole in the Rock” before finishing your trip in Auckland.
Departure Dates
| 2024 | ||
| Month | Day | |
| September | 4*, 27* | |
| October | 10, 28 | |
| November | 12 | |
| December | 4 | |
| 2025 | ||
| Month | Day | |
| January | 11, 26 | |
| February | 13 | |
| March | 10, 26 | |
| April | 1, 18 | |
| May | 4* | |
| September | 4*, 27* | |
| October | 10, 19 | |
| November | 12, 17 | |
| December | 4 | |
| 2026 | ||
| Month | Day | |
| January | 12, 26 | |
| February | 13, 22 | |
| March | 10, 26 | |
| April | 1, 14 | |
| May | 4* | |
|
*BONUS OFFER: $250 per person discount applies to these departure dates. (C) Tour closed/Full; (L) Limited Slots |
||
Start: Christchurch
Finish: Auckland
Includes:
Style: Ultimate Small Group
Coach: 20 seat Business Class
Accommodation: 4.5 star
Prepaid Attractions
**TranzAlpine Train not operating on 4th Sep departure - a refund will be provided at time of final payment.
Coach Features
Experience
Airfares can be included in your package at an extra cost. Please enquire.
MEALS
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY
(B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
Pricing:
Cost per person twin share
| September 2024 - May 2025 | ||
| Land Only | AU$9,699 | |
| Single Supplement | AU$2,800 | |
| Extra nights accommodation Pre/Post Tour | ||
| City | Twin Share | Single |
| Auckland | AU$190 | AU$380 |
| Christchurch | AU$225 | AU$450 |
| Extra night rates are per person in Australian Dollars, based on room only. | ||
| September 2025 - May 2026 | ||
| Land Only | AU$10,299 | |
| Single Supplement | AU$3,100 | |
| Extra nights accommodation Pre/Post Tour | ||
| City | Twin Share | Single |
| Auckland | AU$200 | AU$400 |
| Christchurch | AU$235 | AU$470 |
| Extra night rates are per person in Australian Dollars, based on room only. | ||
* Please Note*
Prices are correct at time of printing, but are subject to exchange rate variations and component price changes.
PAYMENT
CANCELLATION CHARGES
If a traveller wishes to cancel their existing booking and transfer to a new departure date, the above cancellation fees still apply.
Currency ConverterExplore the diverse North and the majestic South in this 16 Day Ultimate Explorer small group coach tour of New Zealand. This tour features world-famous attractions like the Milford Sound, TranzAlpine scenic train journey, Interislander Ferry cruise, and so much more.
From the “Garden City” Christchurch, you will travel south towards Lake Tekapo to see its beautiful turquoise water before spending the night at the spectacular Mt Cook National Park. The following day, you will travel southeast to Dunedin where you will enjoy an informative city tour. Travel to Te Anau where you stay a night before visiting the magical Milford Sound for a relaxing cruise. Spend two nights in Queenstown, the country’s adventure capital. You will have a free day to explore its beautiful surroundings or have a go at adventurous activities like skydiving, jetboating, or bungy jumping. From Queenstown, you will travel to the west coast to see the twin Glaciers and then board the TranzAlpine Train back to Christchurch.
In the North Island, you will start your tour in Wellington after taking the Interislander Ferry from Picton. You will travel to Rotorua and learn about the fascinating culture of the Maori while enjoying the city’s geothermal wonders. Travel north to the subtropical Bay of Islands and cruise to the famous “Hole in the Rock” before finishing your trip in Auckland.
Christchurch Tram on Regent Street
Lupins at Mt Cook National Park
Business class coach
Business class seats
Ultimate view
Hole in the Rock Cruise, Bay of Islands
The hongi is a traditional Maori greeting expressed by the rubbing or...
Te Papa Museum, Wellington
Entertainment
On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions.
Hotel The George or similar
After an introductory city sights tour depart Christchurch and travel through the southern Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo. See the brilliant turquoise water, The Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheep Dog Statue. Marvel at the spectacular mountain ranges including Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps.
Hotel The Hermitage Hotel (Aoraki Wing)
Depart Mt Cook, see Lake Benmore and follow the Waitaki River to Oamaru. Continue south to Dunedin, enjoy a city tour followed by free time. You might be interested in a tour to see local wildlife in their natural habitat (optional).
Hotel Distinction Dunedin Hote
This morning travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle where you will hear of the tragic and scandalous history on a guided tour. Enjoy time to wander around this Garden of International Significance followed by an Ultimate High Tea in the Grand Ballroom. Farewell Dunedin and travel through Balclutha and Gore to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland and your overnight stay. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (optional).
Hotel Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy lunch. This afternoon travel to Queenstown, overlooking magical Lake Wakatipu. Spend the next two nights at this year-round resort which offers a wide range of activities and attractions. This evening is at leisure, you may choose to dine at one of the many fine restaurants.
Hotel Heritage Queenstown (2 nights)
Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown with many optional activities available. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride or a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown.
Travel to Arrowtown, an old goldmining village and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via the Haast Pass to the West Coast, an area of stunning beauty. See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel north to the township of Fox Glacier. Next you visit Franz Josef, where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers before arriving at your hotel.
Hotel Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Travel to Hokitika and visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue to Arthur’s Pass and board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. View rivers and valleys as you travel through the Waimakariri Basin, over massive viaducts and through the patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains. On arrival into the elegant city of Christchurch, your Ultimate Coach will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.
Hotel The George
Travel along the East Coast to the seaside village of Kaikōura. Enjoy the spectacular scenery as you travel through Marlborough Country, famous for its food and wine. Continue to Picton, where you will board the Interislander Ferry and experience the comfort and intimate setting of the Premium Lounge. Enjoy complimentary refreshments as you travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Wellington.
Hotel InterContinental Wellington (Premium Room. 2 nights)
A highlight this morning will be time to explore Gallipoli: A Scale of War exhibition at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum. Cutting edge technology brings these stories to life through the eyes of New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances. Reboard your coach for an extensive city tour which showcases the history and culture on show. Enjoy free time this afternoon and this evening is also free to choose your own dining arrangements.
Depart Wellington and view the snow-capped peaks of Mt Ruapehu and Mt Tongariro as you travel to Lake Taupo. Visit the spectacular Huka Falls then travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua.
Hotel Regent of Rotorua (2 nights)
Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua where spectacular views are on offer. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is the Agrodome for an action-packed hour of farming entertainment and education that is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Free time is available this afternoon before travelling to Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. This evening experience an entertaining Māori Hāngi and Concert.
This morning depart Rotorua and travel north through Whangarei to the Bay of Islands. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Māori tribes and the British.
Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands (2 nights)
This morning you will explore the scenic beauty of the Bay of Islands including an island visit aboard a luxury catamaran. Cruise to Cape Brett and the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’, keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life. On return to Paihia, enjoy a free afternoon where a range of optional activities are available, or you may choose to relax and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of the waterfront. This evening is also at leisure, you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).
Depart the Bay of Islands this morning and travel via Whangarei and Dargaville to Matakohe. Enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum before continuing to Auckland for a city sights tour. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your newfound friends.
Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland
Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
Cost per person twin share
| September 2024 - May 2025 | ||
| Land Only | AU$9,699 | |
| Single Supplement | AU$2,800 | |
| Extra nights accommodation Pre/Post Tour | ||
| City | Twin Share | Single |
| Auckland | AU$190 | AU$380 |
| Christchurch | AU$225 | AU$450 |
| Extra night rates are per person in Australian Dollars, based on room only. | ||
| September 2025 - May 2026 | ||
| Land Only | AU$10,299 | |
| Single Supplement | AU$3,100 | |
| Extra nights accommodation Pre/Post Tour | ||
| City | Twin Share | Single |
| Auckland | AU$200 | AU$400 |
| Christchurch | AU$235 | AU$470 |
| Extra night rates are per person in Australian Dollars, based on room only. | ||
* Please Note*
Prices are correct at time of printing, but are subject to exchange rate variations and component price changes.
PAYMENT
CANCELLATION CHARGES
If a traveller wishes to cancel their existing booking and transfer to a new departure date, the above cancellation fees still apply.
On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions.
Hotel The George or similar
After an introductory city sights tour depart Christchurch and travel through the southern Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo. See the brilliant turquoise water, The Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheep Dog Statue. Marvel at the spectacular mountain ranges including Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps.
Hotel The Hermitage Hotel (Aoraki Wing)
Depart Mt Cook, see Lake Benmore and follow the Waitaki River to Oamaru. Continue south to Dunedin, enjoy a city tour followed by free time. You might be interested in a tour to see local wildlife in their natural habitat (optional).
Hotel Distinction Dunedin Hote
This morning travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle where you will hear of the tragic and scandalous history on a guided tour. Enjoy time to wander around this Garden of International Significance followed by an Ultimate High Tea in the Grand Ballroom. Farewell Dunedin and travel through Balclutha and Gore to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland and your overnight stay. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (optional).
Hotel Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy lunch. This afternoon travel to Queenstown, overlooking magical Lake Wakatipu. Spend the next two nights at this year-round resort which offers a wide range of activities and attractions. This evening is at leisure, you may choose to dine at one of the many fine restaurants.
Hotel Heritage Queenstown (2 nights)
Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown with many optional activities available. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride or a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown.
Travel to Arrowtown, an old goldmining village and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via the Haast Pass to the West Coast, an area of stunning beauty. See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel north to the township of Fox Glacier. Next you visit Franz Josef, where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers before arriving at your hotel.
Hotel Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Travel to Hokitika and visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue to Arthur’s Pass and board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. View rivers and valleys as you travel through the Waimakariri Basin, over massive viaducts and through the patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains. On arrival into the elegant city of Christchurch, your Ultimate Coach will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.
Hotel The George
Travel along the East Coast to the seaside village of Kaikōura. Enjoy the spectacular scenery as you travel through Marlborough Country, famous for its food and wine. Continue to Picton, where you will board the Interislander Ferry and experience the comfort and intimate setting of the Premium Lounge. Enjoy complimentary refreshments as you travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Wellington.
Hotel InterContinental Wellington (Premium Room. 2 nights)
A highlight this morning will be time to explore Gallipoli: A Scale of War exhibition at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum. Cutting edge technology brings these stories to life through the eyes of New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances. Reboard your coach for an extensive city tour which showcases the history and culture on show. Enjoy free time this afternoon and this evening is also free to choose your own dining arrangements.
Depart Wellington and view the snow-capped peaks of Mt Ruapehu and Mt Tongariro as you travel to Lake Taupo. Visit the spectacular Huka Falls then travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua.
Hotel Regent of Rotorua (2 nights)
Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua where spectacular views are on offer. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is the Agrodome for an action-packed hour of farming entertainment and education that is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Free time is available this afternoon before travelling to Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. This evening experience an entertaining Māori Hāngi and Concert.
This morning depart Rotorua and travel north through Whangarei to the Bay of Islands. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Māori tribes and the British.
Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands (2 nights)
This morning you will explore the scenic beauty of the Bay of Islands including an island visit aboard a luxury catamaran. Cruise to Cape Brett and the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’, keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life. On return to Paihia, enjoy a free afternoon where a range of optional activities are available, or you may choose to relax and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of the waterfront. This evening is also at leisure, you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).
Depart the Bay of Islands this morning and travel via Whangarei and Dargaville to Matakohe. Enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum before continuing to Auckland for a city sights tour. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your newfound friends.
Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland
Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
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