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group tours > small group escorted tours > total new zealand experience tour

The Total New Zealand Experience Tour - 17 day/18 night New Zealand Small Group Tour

The Ultimate New Zealand Tour
This 17 day, 18 night tour of the North Island and South Islands is the ultimate New Zealand tour, with an all encompassing itinerary, supearb accomodation and spectacular fare you will wonder why it took you so long to visit. The Total experience is just that, everything you could possibly want in a luxury holiday all at once, it truly is what dreams are made of.

Your Tour Itinerary

“Kia Ora” and Welcome to New Zealand!

After Immigration and Customs formalities, you will be met by a Green Realm Travel representative, who will assist with your private transfer to your CBD hotel.

Auckland sprawls across the cones, hills, ridges and valleys of an old volcanic field. Bestriding an isthmus, the cities and boroughs of greater Auckland stretch literally from coast to coast and this gives an interesting and natural diversity. Being surrounded by safe and interesting waters, Aucklanders have become a water-oriented people. It is estimated there are more boats here per capita than anywhere else in the world; hence Auckland has been dubbed “The City of Sails”. The climate is temperate and well balanced throughout the seasons. This factor, coupled with Auckland’s sea-level location, its green pleasantness and relaxed way of life, add up to a favourable environment.

Stay at your choice or a first night optional booking in a 5 star Auckland CBD hotel.

Day 1 Auckland - Paihia via the West Coast (L,D)
This morning you will board your luxury tour coach at your CBD hotel and travel north to the seaside township of Paihia. Today’s journey will have you travelling via the West Coast region including Opononi.

On arrival into the Puhoi area, a stop will be made at the ‘Art of Cheese’ – which is a family owned and operated cheese factory. The Art of Cheese factory produces 7 different blue cheeses, Camembert, Brie, Mascarpone and Crème Fraiche. Blue cheese is the speciality and the following varieties are produced – Bohemien Blue, Gorgonzola, Blue Brie and the latest creation is Kaipara Blue, which is a mild, very creamy blue vein.

You will enjoy a home-style morning tea including coffee/tea and muffins, before enjoying a short tour of the property including cheese tasting.

You will then reboard your luxury coach and continue north, turning towards the West Coast at Brynderwyn. At Matakohe, you will visit the Kauri Museum, before continuing the journey towards the Hokianga harbour via Dargaville & the Waipoua Forest.

On arrival at the village of Omapere you will enjoy a home-style 2 course
luncheon at the Copthorne Hokianga Hotel, which has a lovely lawn area that overlooks the sea.

On arrival into Paihia, you will be transferred to the Paihia Beach Resort for check in.

In the early evening the group will take a short stroll to the Maritime Building at the Paihia wharf. Here you will board a small water taxi, which will transfer you across to the town of Russell. On arrival at Russell, the group will make its way to the Kamakura Restaurant, here you will enjoy a 3 course set menu style dinner, before returning to Paihia wharf by water taxi.

The natural beauty of the Bay of Islands has to be seen to be believed. It’s an aquatic playground lavishly furnished with 144 islands and a myriad of secluded beaches. Every bay, shore and cove has a story to tell. The townships of this historic bay are alive with memories of the area’s colourful past, both Maori and European. You’ll find out why the Bay of Islands is considered to be the birthplace of New Zealand as a bi-cultural nation. You’ll also see how Maori culture and lifestyle have adapted to modern times. Wherever you are in the Bay of Islands, it’s impossible to escape the lure of the sea. There are almost endless opportunities for immersing yourself in the blue-green world of island and beach.

Stay Paihia Beach Resort - 2 nights

Day 2 Bay of Islands (B/D)
Today you are able to participate in one of the many optional tours such as:

  • Cape Brett Hole in the Rock Cruise
  • Entrance to Waitangi Treaty Grounds
  • Swim with the Dolphins Cruise
  • Cape Brett Hole in the Rock by Speed Boat
  • ½ day Guided Kayak tour (4 hours)
  • ½ day tour of Kerikeri, featuring entrance to the Mission House and Stone Store Historic Buildings

Dinner this evening will be at the award winning Taste restaurant, onsite at the Paihia Beach Resort. Here you will enjoy a 3 course meal.

Accommodation: Paihia Beach Resort – 1 Bedroom Superior


Day 3 Bay of Islands – Matakana – Mangatawhiri Valley (B/L/D)
This morning you will board your luxury coach and bid the Bay of Islands region farewell. You will travel south on State Highway 1, via the city of Whangarei and the towns of Ruakaka, Waipu and Kaiwaka towards the Matakana wine region.

Once in the Matakana region you will be taken to Ascension Winery. On arrival you will enjoy wine tasting, followed by a 2 course set menu luncheon.

After lunch you will reboard your luxury tour coach and continue the journey south to today’s destination of Mangatawhiri Valley, which is situated around 45 minutes south of Auckland.

On arrival at Heritage Hotel & Spa du Vin you will be checked into your accommodation.

This evening you will enjoy a welcome glass of NZ wine and canapés on the lawn area. The lawn area is next to the grape vines, and is surrounded by the beautiful vista of the green hills beyond. The group will then move into a private dining room (Vintage Room) to enjoy a 3 course set menu style dinner.

Accommodation: Heritage Hotel & Spa du Vin – ‘Selection’ rooms (1 night)

Day 4 Mangatawhiri Valley – Waitomo – Rotorua (B/L/D)
This morning you will board your luxury coach and travel along State Highway 2, to connect with the main State Highway 1, heading south. The journey will have you crossing the Bombay Hills, an area known for its light volcanic soil thus popular for market gardening. Continue through the fertile plains of the Waikato district, renowned for its horse studs and dairy farms, to Waitomo in the King Country.

On arrival into the Waitomo District, a visit is made to the Waitomo Caves, with their fascinating limestone formations, first discovered in the 1800’s. In the glow-worm grotto you take a boat ride silently along an underground river beneath a canopy of lights made by the minute larvae on the roof above you.

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You will be transferred to your departure point, from where you will be transported to Ruakuri Cave, where you will enter through the drum entrance down a spiral walkway. A world of mystery and intrigue awaits you. Immerse yourself in the Mana of Ruakuri and discover the spirit that connects the land and people. The guided journey will take you deep into the unknown. Crystal cave tapestries will enthral you in the Drum Passage and as you descend, follow the rumbling sound of the Hidden Waterfall to the bridge where the glow worms illuminate this eerie world. Gaze in wonder at stalactite straws, flowstone and majestic formations that surround you. Continue into the dark corners of Holden’s Cavern where the guide will tell you about the local Maori legends and tapu places. Experience a sense of trepidation as you traverse along the Ghost Walk. Let your imagination take hold and feel the spiritual power of the cave.

You then travel to Crosshills in Kio Kio for lunch at a country home and farm. The homestead blends in well with the surrounding countryside, and the English-style garden is a delight to stroll through.

Finally, travel via the Fitzgerald Glade and over the heavily forested Mamaku Ranges to Rotorua, located in the Bay of Plenty.

On arrival in Rotorua, you will be taken to Millennium Hotel to check in.

This evening you will be transferred to Pepper’s on the Point Lodge, which is surrounded by the sparkling waters of Lake Rotorua. Pepper’s on the Point is an 80-year-old mansion that has been extensively refurbished to offer Lodge style accommodation and also casual dining. On arrival you will enjoy a welcome glass of NZ wine and canapés, before moving into the conservatory area where you will enjoy a 4 course table d’hôte style dinner, or if the weather is more favourable, you will be able to eat on the terrace. Your Driver/Guide will then transfer you back to Millennium Hotel at the end of the evening.

Rotorua is situated on a volcanic rift which stretches in a 200km (124 mile) line from White Island, off the coast of the Bay of Plenty, to Lake Taupo and the volcanoes of the Tongariro National Park in the Central Plateau of the North Island. Rotorua is a forestry, farming and light industrial centre. The Maori culture in Rotorua contributes greatly to the attractions of this holiday city, where you can enjoy the culture and entertainment of the true Polynesian people.

Accommodation: Millennium Hotel – Club Rooms (2 nights)

Day 5 Rotorua (B/D)
Today is at your own leisure, you may wish to participate in one of the many optional tours such as:

  • Rotorua Sightseeing by Duck
  • 4WD ½ day excursion to Mt Tarawera
  • Entrance to the Polynesian Lake Spa
  • Kawarau Jet Rotorua – speed, spin & adrenalin on the lake
  • Full day Waimangu Round Trip including morning tea & lunch
  • Lakeland Queen Paddle Steamer

This evening you will be transferred from your hotel to Te Puia, by your luxury coach.

Enjoy a guided tour of the model Maori pa (village site) and close by, the Institute where young Maori are taught the skills of traditional carving. From here, visit the Thermal Reservation to see boiling mud pools and geysers including ‘Pohutu’ (‘splashing’), the largest geyser, which plays several times a day.

Later, commence your Hangi and Concert. The ceremony begins with a formal welcome (powhiri), followed by the challenger (wero). You then proceed into the village for the welcoming call followed by a war or haka dance before being welcomed into the meeting house Te Aronui a Rua. After the Speeches of Welcome (whaikorero) enjoy a cultural performance of traditional Maori songs, games and dances by using typical musical instruments and the use of poi and weapons.

At the end of the concert you will be guided into the Hangi house where you will see the lifting of the Hangi (dinner). Well-wrapped food is steam-cooked in baskets in an underground pit. The meal, consisting of wild pork, lamb, seafood and vegetables, is then lifted from the ground and ready for serving.

You are then guided into a typical Marae (sacred courtyard) dining room to enjoy your Hangi dinner whilst being entertained by typical Maori songs. At the end of a wonderful night you will be returned to your hotel by luxury coach.

Accommodation: Millennium Hotel - Club Rooms

Day 6 Rotorua – Taupo – Napier (B/L/D)
This morning you depart your hotel for your coach journey to Napier, travelling through plantations of pine forest to Taupo, a township located on the edge of Lake Taupo. The approach from Wairakei offers spectacular views over the town, lake and distant mountains. En route a stop is made to see the pounding Huka Falls, hukanui in Maori meaning a ‘great body of spray’. See the waters of the Waikato River forced through a narrow gap between rocks at great force.

Your Driver Guide will then transfer you to a local jetty on Lake Taupo. Here you will board a private vessel to enjoy a 3 hour cruise on Lake Taupo including a home-style lunch.

On return to the jetty you will reboard your luxury coach and continue the journey to today’s destination of Napier. Travel southeast on State Highway 5 to Napier, across the forested pumice land surrounding Napier, across the fertile Esk Valley to Napier.

On arrival into Napier, you will be taken directly to The Crown Hotel for check in.

Napier is the centre of the Hawke’s Bay region of New Zealand. Napier is renowned for both its Art Deco architecture and also for its wine industry and it is said to be one of the warmest regions in the country with warm summers and mild winters. There are many activities from adventure seeking, wine tasting to just browsing around the local art deco shopping areas.

In the late afternoon you will reboard your luxury coach to be transferred to the Sileni Wine Estate. Here you will enjoy a guided tour along with Wine tasting and Olive Oil tasting, followed by a cooking demonstration at the Culinary school which is on site, by one of the restaurant team. He/she will be demonstrating one of the dishes that will be on offer to the group this evening. After the demonstration, you will be invited to move to the restaurant, where you will be served a 3 course set menu style dinner.

At the end of the evening your Driver Guide will transfer the group back to the hotel.

Sileni Estates is a major vineyard and winery development in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand’s oldest established vineyard area. The first vintage was in 1998 and since then the wines have won worldwide acclaim. Sileni Estates is named after the Sileni who featured in Roman mythology alongside Bacchus, the god of wine. They celebrated good wine, good food and good company. Sileni Estate boasts a state of the art winery designed to crush over 1500 tonnes of grapes. The Winemaking Team has honed their winemaking skills in Alsace, Bordeaux, Burgundy, California, Chile and Oregon, and they strive to maintain high standards in environmentally sustainable viticulture and winemaking practices.
Day 6 Rotorua – Taupo – Napier (B/L/D) - continued

Sileni Estates produce hand crafted wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the vineyards.

Accommodation: The Crown Hotel – Studio Rooms (1 night)

Day 7 Napier – Martinborough – Wellington (B/L)
This morning you will board your luxury coach and depart Napier for your journey to Wellington travelling via Woodville and Masterton.

A stop is made at the Mt Bruce Wildlife Centre for a visit (entrance fee at your own expense). The reserve forms part of the once magnificent Forty Mile Bush. Remaining forest of rimu, rata and kamahi proved ideally suited, initially, for the care of young Takahe and to ensure their survival. The Mt Bruce Wildlife Centre offers visitors a unique opportunity to see examples of New Zealand’s threatened and endangered wildlife and learn about wildlife conservation.

From Masterton travel south via Carterton and Greytown on State Highway 2 before turning onto Highway 53 to the winery town of Martinborough, which is located in the Wairarapa district. The Wairarapa is a well-known area for wine making and whilst the production from the area may be small, the region has had outstanding international success across a broad range of varietals. Many of New Zealand’s finest wines at the ultra-premium end of the market originate from the region.

On arrival at Martinborough, you will stop at Peppers’s Martinborough Hotel – here you will enjoy a 2 course set menu style luncheon, in a beautiful historic hotel.

Pepper’s Martinborough Hotel: Established in 1882, Peppers Martinborough Hotel is an historic retreat offering luxury, boutique accommodation at the heart of Martinborough Wine Village – one of New Zealand’s finest wine destinations. Taking pride of place at the entrance to the square is Peppers Martinborough Hotel. Developer Edmund Buckeridge described it in 1882 as ‘one of the finest hostelries ever erected in any inland town in New Zealand’. A stopping point for prosperous travellers to and from the South Wairarapa’s huge isolated sheep station, its grand facade has been a focal point for the town right from the early days.

After lunch you will make a visit to the Vynfields Winery, which is an Organic and Biodynamic Vineyard. Here you will enjoy wine tasting before reboarding your luxury coach and travelling to the next winery.

The last winery for the day will be the Martinborough Vineyard, here you will enjoy wine tasting before continuing onto Wellington.

You will reboard the luxury coach and return along Highway 53 to rejoin State Highway 2. The luxury coach will then climb the Rimutaka Ranges and travel through the mountain pass descending through the Lower and Upper Hutt Valleys to Wellington.

On arrival in Wellington you will be taken directly to the Duxton Hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure.

Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand lies at the southern end of the North Island. On the shores of a magnificent harbour and surrounded by the rugged beauty of green hills, it is one of the most scenic cities. Some of the best views are obtained from the hilltops, especially from Mt Victoria lookout. The newest attraction in the ‘capital’ is New Zealand’s National Museum. Named ‘Te Papa’ (our place) it contains a wealth of information on New Zealand’s past, present and future, many interactive exhibits, multi-media database and fascinating collections. A must see while in Wellington.

Accommodation: Duxton Hotel Wellington – Club Rooms (2 nights)

Day 8 Wellington (B/L/D)
Today is at your leisure, and you may wish to do one of the following optional activities:

  • Zest ½ day guided walk
  • Red Rock Seals 4WD excursion
  • Tour of Karori Wildlife Sanctuary – 2 hour duration
  • Parliament Building & Te Papa Museum guided tour

In the early evening you will board your luxury coach to travel the short distance to tonight’s dinner location, Boomrock. On arrival, you will enjoy a glass of NZ wine and a selection of delicious canapés. You will then sit down to enjoy a sumptuous 3 course set menu style dinner. Your Driver Guide will return you to your accommodation. Three glasses of NZ wine per person is included this evening.

Boomrock: Waves thunder against the 250-metre cliffs and echo back out across the expansive sea, giving this remarkable place its name – Boomrock. Nestled into the natural surroundings, this exquisite luxury lodge has stunning views over the Cook Strait to the South Island. A feeling of warmth is created by the Jarrah flooring, huge wharf beams and roaring open fire.

Accommodation: Duxton Hotel Wellington – Club Rooms

Day 9 Wellington – Picton – Nelson (B/D)
This morning you will be transferred by private transfer to the Interislander ferry terminal to board the Interislander vessel for transfer to the South Island of New Zealand.

The sailing time from Wellington to Picton is roughly 3 hours to cross the Cook Strait. Be sure to remain on deck as the ferry leaves Wellington, the sight of the Marlborough Sounds, with its steep bush clad hills rising out of the sea an the heavily indented coastline, is always memorable.

On arrival at Picton, you will be met by your South Island Driver Guide, who will assist you to your luxury coach.

Join the rest of your group and depart on your journey to Nelson and your accommodation.

Upon arrival in Nelson you will be taken directly to your accommodation for the night, the Monaco Hotel & Resort.

In the early evening the group will be transferred by your luxury coach from the Monaco Hotel & Resort to a well known restaurant. Here you will enjoy a set menu style dinner, in elegant surroundings. Your Driver Guide will return you to your accommodation at the end of the evening.

Nelson: the region, which is the sunniest in New Zealand, has for many years attracted residents who love to use their imaginations. There are more than 350 working artists and craftspeople living in Nelson, including traditional and contemporary Maori artists. Their work is often inspired by the region’s exceptionally beautiful geography – coastal, forest and valley landscapes provide places to wander and dream.

Accommodation: Monaco Hotel & Resort – Various Cottages (1 night)

Day 10 Nelson – Marahau – Awaroa Lodge (B/D)
This morning you will be transported by your luxury coach from Nelson, to Marahau Bay. Here you will board a private water taxi, for a 1 ½ hour cruise to Awaroa Lodge, which is situated in the Abel Tasman National Park area.

On arrival at Awaroa Lodge you will be welcomed by the Lodge staff. The remainder of your day is at your own leisure to explore the various walking trails or simply enjoy the ambience of the Awaroa Lodge setting.

A 3 course set menu style dinner is included at the lodge restaurant this evening.

Awaroa Lodge: Discerning travellers from all over the world appreciate the distinctive architecture and relaxed ambience of Awaroa Lodge. Discover a perfect balance of natural comfort and contemporary style, welcoming hospitality and creative & organic cuisine. At the quiet northern end of Abel Tasman National Park, Awaroa Lodge is the perfect vantage point to explore the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track – the most beautiful of all New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’. The Awaroa Experience is an intrinsic New Zealand Experience. A combination of incredible scenery, warm friendly service, great local food and drink and a restful nights’ sleep! Nestled in native bush, Awaroa Lodge is just two minutes from the beach.

Accommodation: Awaroa Lodge – Superior Studio Units (1 night)

Day 11 Awaroa Lodge – Marahau – Punakaiki – Fox Glacier (B/D)
This morning you will depart Awaroa Lodge by water taxi. On arrival at Marahau you will reboard your luxury coach to begin the journey to the West Coast of the South Island.

You will travel the scenic coast road to Punakaiki, where the rocks take on the extraordinary appearance of a pile of pancakes. The ‘Pancake Rocks’ and their associated blowholes consist of eroded limestone. Reached by a short walk from the main road, the rocks are best visited during an incoming tide and brisk westerly, when the sea surges through the chasms. During your time at Punakaiki you may wish to visit the Punakaiki Visitor Centre, which has interesting displays and an audio-visual that runs for 15 minutes. There is a donation applicable to view the audio-visual (own expense).

You will continue your journey south to Greymouth and from there over swiftly flowing rivers and through virgin stands of native forest. En route to Fox Glacier, you pass Hokitika, which is a major centre for the working of Greenstone. Hokitika is also the centre of a region that is rich in history and nearby is a wealth of native forests, lakes and rivers.

Thereafter, you will be transferred to your accommodation for the night, the Te Weheka Inn.

A set menu style dinner will be served at your hotel restaurant this evening

Accommodation: Te Weheka Inn – Run of House rooms (1 night)

Day 12 Fox Glacier – Wanaka (B)
This morning you will have an informative and leisurely trip to the dynamic face of Fox Glacier. It is here that the Fox River emerges from the ice and where ice collapses are often heard and seen.

Although you will not walk on the glacier your guide will take you to the final resting place of the ice that has travelled 13 kilometres from the base of the Southern Alps, all the way to the river valley floor. Your guide may take you closer to the ice than the unguided public (if it is safe to do so at the time) and you will have the opportunity to learn the role of the Fox Glacier in shaping its environment.

This two hour trip is reasonably easy going. About one and a half hours is spent walking over gentle terrain, over a river valley floor, at a speed that almost anyone can manage. There is a strong focus on providing you with quality interpretation so you can learn about the glacier and the surrounding environment.

It is usually possible to view the cave at the terminal face of the ice from which the Fox River emerges.

Upon completion, depart the glacier area in your luxury coach and travel further south along the rugged West Coast to the tiny community of Haast, located on the coast where the wide Haast River meets the sea.

OPTIONAL: At Haast you may wish to visit The South West New Zealand World Heritage Visitor Centre (Department of Conservation), at the junction of SH6 and Jackson Bay Road on the southern bank of the Haast River. The centre has information on the area and on nature-related activities (at your own cost).

From Haast, you will turn inland and traverse State Highway 6, which offers wonderful views of the Southern Alps. The Haast Pass, linking Westland with the Southern Lakes District of Central Otago. Is dramatic, providing sudden contrast between the lush vegetation of the west and dry tussocked Otago landscape. Then descend to Wanaka, following the shorelines of Lakes Wanaka and Hawera.

Upon arrival in Wanaka you will be taken directly to your accommodation for the night, the Grand Mercure Oakridge.

Accommodation: Grand Mercure Oakridge

Day 13 Wanaka – Te Anau (B/L/D)
This morning you will reboard your luxury coach to be transferred to the railway station at Kingston. Here you will join the Kingston Flyer for a short journey on this historic steam train.

The original Kingston Flyer was a passenger service that operated between Kingston and the Main South Line at Gore from 1878 through to the mid 1950s. It provided a passageway to Queenstown and the surrounding stations, by meeting up with the lake steamers at Kingston Wharf. Today The Kingston Flyer operates on a 14km stretch of track and consists of two AB Pacific Class steam locomotives (NZ built). AB 795 dating 1927 was a former Royal Train Locomotive & AB 778 dating 1925. They also have seven steam-heated wooden vintage carriages dating back to 1898.

After the short trip on the Kingston Flyer, your Driver Guide will greet you at Fairlight, where you will reboard the luxury coach to continue the journey.

At the junction of 3 state highways, lies the ‘Five Rivers Station’, which is a combination of a cafe and art gallery. Here you will enjoy a sumptuous 2 course set menu style luncheon.

After lunch, you will reboard your luxury coach and continue to today’s destination of Te Anau.

Upon arrival in Te Anau you will be taken directly to your accommodation for the night, the Te Anau Hotel & Villas.

Te Anau: The serene deep waters of Lake Te Anau make up the largest lake in the South Island and second largest in NZ, and are bordered on its western shore by lush virgin forest. The attractive town of Te Anau lies nestled on the edge of this beautiful lake, with a spectacular backdrop of Mt Luxmore and the Murchison mountains. Te Anau provides a full range of services to visitors, and is the closest service base to Milford Sound, with a scenic 2 ½ drive from Te Anau to Milford.

Accommodation: Te Anau Hotel & Villas – Run of House Rooms (1 night)

Day 14 Te Anau – Milford Sound - Queenstown (B/D)
A memorable day! You will depart Te Anau for a day of unsurpassed scenery, beginning with a drive through the beech forests of the Eglinton Valley before entering the Hollyford Valley, and descending through the Homer Tunnel into Milford Sound. During your journey, there is time for photo stops and short walks along the way.

On arrival, you will embark on a cruise of Milford Sound, including the hidden mouth of the Sound, towering Mitre Peak and the cascading Stirling Falls. An information and interesting commentary is provided throughout the cruise with a Gourmet Picnic style lunch on board.

At the end of the cruise, reboard your luxury coach and retrace your route to Queenstown or as an optional activity you have the opportunity to fly out of Milford Sound on a fixed wing aircraft to Queenstown. This will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life as you fly over the Fiords and marvel at the suspended lakes and waterfalls as well as the world famous Milford Track.

On arrival into Queenstown you will check into your accommodation for the night, the Sofitel Hotel.

In the early evening, the group will meet at a private spot in the Sofitel Hotel. Here a representative from one of the well-known wineries will greet you. With the guidance of your winery host, you will have the opportunity to sample 3 or 4 of their Pinot wines, and some of the cheese they make onsite at the winery. Canapés that have been created using some of the local produce will be served, and the chef from the hotel restaurant will meet with the group and briefly explain the different canapés that are being served to you that evening.

After the wine tasting and canapés the group will stroll a short distance to the steamer wharf. Here you will enjoy a 3 course set menu style dinner at a well known Queenstown restaurant. Return to the Sofitel Hotel is at your own leisure.

Queenstown: a region of exceptional and diverse beauty, is a leading resort in the South Island, with inveterate world travellers regarding it as one of the premier scenic areas in the world. Backed by steep mountatins, Queenstown lies in the curve of Lake Wakatipu at the head of its own small horse-shoe shaped bay. It is the South Island’s principal resort, drawing visitors the year round with its lake and mountain scenery, exhilarating climate, changing seasons and wide range of excursion possibilities.

Accommodation: Sofitel Hotel – Deluxe Lake View Rooms (2 nights)

Day 15 Queenstown (B)
Today is at your own leisure and you may wish to participate in an optional activity (extra cost):

  • Dart River Safari Excursion including light BBQ Lunch
  • ½ day Skippers Canyon adventure by 4WD
  • Shotover Jet Boat Ride
  • Golf at Millbrook – 18 holes
  • TSS Earnslaw Cruise & BBQ Lunch at Walter Peak Station

This evening will also be at your own leisure and you may wish to dine at one of the following highly recommended restaurants (this will be at your own expense):

Gantley’s Historic Restaurant
Boardwalk Restaurant
Prime Restaurant
The Cow (relaxed dining/Pizzeria)

Accommodation: Sofitel Hotel – Deluxe Lake View Rooms

Day 16 Queenstown – Mt Cook (B/L/D)
Today you will depart in your luxury coach for your journey to Christchurch via Mt Cook. Your journey begins by following the Kawarau River to the township of Cromwell. You then cross the Lindis Pass, which links northern central Otago with Mt Cook and the Mackenzie Country. This inland route winds through some of the most evocative hill country to be found in New Zealand, with the forever-present Southern Alps splitting the South Island distinctly into west and east. Continue north to Omarama, where a stop will be made at a local establishment for lunch.

The Wrinkly Rams is a fantastic stop for any group of International visitors. It is a combination of Sheep shearing show, cafe, art gallery & wine bar. There are a lot of talented artists in the Omarama district and also surrounding districts, and the owners have sourced the best from these artists to show in their purpose built gallery.

You will reboard your luxury coach after lunch, and continue the journey via the southern most tip of Lake Pukaki, before following the shoreline to Mt Cook Village.

On arrival at Mt Cook you will be checked into your accommodation for the evening, the Hermitage Hotel.

A set menu dinner has been selected at the Hermitage Hotel restaurant for this evening’s meal.

Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel – Aoraki Wing Top 3 floors (1 night)

Day 17 Mt Cook – Christchurch (B/L/D)
This morning you will depart Mt Cook for Christchurch, retracing your route along the shoreline of Lake Pukaki to Lake Tekapo, a turquoise glacial lake. A stop is made at the lake’s edge to look at the simple stone Church of the Good Shepherd and the nearby bronze sheep dog.

You will continue through this windswept plateau of rolling tussock country, via the townships of Fairlie and Geraldine to today’s lunch destination of Terrace Downs.

On arrival at Terrace Downs you will enjoy a 2 course set menu style luncheon.

Terrace Downs is located in one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth, at the base of Mt Hutt overlooking the Rakaia Gorge; Terrace Downs offers an incomparable luxury leisure experience. Its 550 acres of unique New Zealand High Country provide peace and seclusion just 50 minutes drive from Christchurch Airport. Terrace Downs conserves as well as shares its environment. Sumptuous, modern facilities, deluxe accommodation in Villa Suites and Fairway Chalets, and an 18-hole championship golf course nestle in a pristine and unique landscape. The Clubhouse restaurant offers spectacular views and signature High Country cuisine using organically grown and fresh local produce.

On completion of lunch, you will reboard your luxury coach, and continue the journey north. The route takes you across the patchwork quilt Canterbury Plains to Christchurch City.

On arrival into Christchurch you will be checked into your accommodation for the evening, the Millennium Hotel.

Later in the evening, the group will be transferred by the Driver Guide from to a well known local restaurant. Here you will enjoy a 3 course set menu style dinner, before being returned by your luxury coach to the hotel.

Accommodation: Millennium Hotel – Executive Suites (1 night)

Day 18 Depart Christchurch
You will be transferred from your hotel to Christchurch Airport, by private transfer.

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New Zealand wilderness

Luxury New Zealand lodges


 What's Included

  • Group size won’t exceed 18 guests
  • 17 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 11 dinners
  • Visit to the Art of Cheese
  • Kauri Museum
  • Return ferry from Paihia to Russell
  • Waitangi Treaty grounds tour
  • Wine Tasting at Ascension Winery
  • Waitomo Caves tour
  • Te Puia privately guided tour
  • Maori Cultural performance
  • Hangi Style dinner
  • 3 hour Cruise on Lake Taupo
  • Wine Tasting at 2 Martinborough Wineries
  • Wellington Zest Gourmet Walking Tour
  • Ferry from Wellington to Picton
  • Wine Tasting at 3 Blenheim Wineries
  • Return Water Taxi to Awaroa Lodge
  • Fox Glacier Terminal Walk
  • Ride on the Kingston Flyer
  • Milford Sound Cruise
  • Scenic Flight to Queenstown & general sightseeing
  • Complimentary airport transfer by limousine


Departure Dates

2008  
October:
November:
3
2, 15
2009  
January:
February:
March:
April:
15
20
4, 17
2, 15


Tour Prices
Per Person in NZ$


Share Twin NZ$13,200
Single Traveller
NZ$17,900

Please contact us or complete our online enquiry form to receive further information on this tour or to check availability on your preferred date of travel.


Total New Zealand Experience group tour

 

Luxury coach travel

These custom-built luxury coaches are at the cutting edge in terms of comfort and environmental standards.

With a maximum of 18 first class leather lounge seats, leg room is not an issue.

Neither is the concern that you may end up cramped for space because of the person next to you, as in these coaches there is only one first-class seat on either side of the centre aisle.

Our coaches also offer onboard bathroom facilities, chilled drinking water and a custom built surround sound system, complete with a 27 inch flat screen T.V.

The coaches are the combination of excellent design, maximum safety, an all-encompassing ecological focus and superb relaxation for our customers.


Reclining coach seats on luxury New Zealand coach tours

Luxury coach tours New Zealand




 
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