AAT Kings New Zealand Marvel Itinerary

 
1

Welcome to Christchurch

‘Haere Mai’ … Welcome to New Zealand!

Welcome to Christchurch, New Zealand’s Garden City. Flights can arrive any time prior to 4.00pm. After you check-in, you can head out and explore Christchurch. 

Some suggested excursions if you have time

Easygoing Cycling Tour

   Punting the Avon River   Lyttelton Harbour Wildlife Cruise

Māori Cultural Evening

   French Akaroa Tour   Southern Alps Ballooning

Christchurch Gondola

   Clearwater Golf   Arthur's Pass TranzAlpine Hike


Meals: Welcome Reception

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 night

Christchurch
This inviting and modern brand new hotel features contemporary rooms, Restaurant & Bar. Nearby to the Cashel Street Re:START mall - this "pop up" shopping precinct is the new vibrant heart of the city, featuring many new designer shops and modern cafes. The Hotel is very close to the famous Cathedral Square, the historic heart of the city providing easy access to local activities, outer lying attractions and the airport.
Ibis Hotel Christchurch.

2

Arthurs Pass to Franz Josef

Todays travel showcases spectacular gorges, ribbon-like rivers, massive viaducts and soaring peaks – don’t forget your camera! Then, journey to Hokitika home of the native greenstone (jade). Next stop is Franz Josef Glacier (optional scenic Franz Josef Glacier flight available).

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 1 night


3

Southern Lakes / Arrowtown / Queenstown

This morning you can choose to walk through the small but lively Franz Josef village. Later on you will leave Franz and follow an ancient greenstone trail to Thunder Creek Falls and Mt Hooker. Travel over Haast Pass, then continue past the trio of lakes - Lake Dunstan, Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka. From here it's on to Cromwell where you'll get to try delicious stone fruit - peaches, plums, apricots, cherries - at a local orchard. Later you will visit the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown, located on the Arrow River. The final stop is Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand- enjoy a sightseeing tour.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Queenstown - 2 nights

Arrowtown Cottage
Experience tranquillity all year round. The Copthorne Resort Lakefront in Queenstown sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and is within walking distance of Queenstown’s central shopping and entertainment area. Exploring panoramic views of the lake and nearby mountains, the Copthorne is the perfect venue to relax! The Copthorne Lakefront blends superior facilities and comfort with friendly service. The hotel Balconies and garden views are a feature of many rooms.
Copthorne Resort Queenstown

4

Queenstown at Leisure

Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and ringed by towering mountains, Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s ultimate holiday destinations. Today you can choose one from a range of included choice sightseeing experiences. You have the option to ride the Shotover Jet on Lake Wakatipu, join a wine tour, play 9 holes of golf or take a Gondola Ride to the Skyline.

This evening cruise aboard New Zealand’s oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station for a gourmet barbecue ‘highlight dinner’ at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner an entertaining farm show gives insight into high-country farm life.
 

Recommended excursions around Queenstown:

Routeburn Day WalkHighest Bungey JumpExplore Arrowtown

Wine Tasting Central Otago      

Biking Skippers Canyon      Round at Millbrook Golf Resort
Earnslaw Steamboat Cruise  Dart River Jetboat Safari      

Gibbston Valley Wine Trail


Meals: Breakfast and Highlights Dinner

 

Queenstown

5

Milford Sound - ‘the Eighth Wonder of the World'

Today you will travel to Milford Sound. On your way you will stop at Mirror Lake, famous for its reflective views of Mount Cook, and past Pop's Lookout where you'll see stunning peaks, valley's and falls. You'll be awestruck by the stunning sights of Fiordland National Park as you cruise Milford Sound, considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world. Later you drive to Te Anau where you will spend the night

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Te Anau - 1 Night

Milford Sound Cruise
Distinction Luxmore Hotel provides comfortable newly refurbished accommodation in one of New Zealand's most popular scenic areas - Te Anau. Within easy walking distance of the township, surrounded by all local services, this 4-star hotel welcomes guests with 2 restaurants, free self parking, a fitness centre and FREE unlimited WiFi. Luxmores management and staff take pride in providing a warm, friendly and efficient service to all guests.
Distinction Luxmore Hotel

6

Dunedin

Cross sheep-filled farming land on the way to Dunedin, known as the Edinburgh of the South because of its rich Scottish heritage. This afternoon you are free - you can choose from a range of included sightseeing experiences like visiting the Otago Peninsula to see unique native wildlife such as Albatross, Sea Lions and rare Yellow-eyed Penguins. If you're a chocolate lover visit the Cadbury Chocolate Factory or if you want to learn more about your surroundings, take a ride on the historic Taieri Gorge Railway which will take you into the spectacular Central Otago Hinterland and up the rugged coast.

Meals: Breakfast 

Accommodation: Dunedin - 1 night

A statue in the city centre of Dunedin.
This contemporary quality 4-star hotel accommodation is located the heart of Dunedin and is filled with modern local artwork. Located just blocks from the Octagon and walking distance of many of the city’s main attractions like the fabulous First Church of Otago, and handy to great restaurants and shopping centres. Amenities Include: Free WiFi, Restaurant & Cafe/Bar, Fitness Centre, Valet Car Parking, Conference Facilities.
Scenic Hotel Dunedin

7

Dunedin / Oamaru / Omarama

This morning you are free to relax, perhaps visit Larnach Castle New Zealand's only castle. In the afternoon travel to Oamaru, a unique mix of Victorian – ornately decorated grand limestone buildings that once housed upstanding banks, hotels and restaurants – and bohemian artisans, creative’s and antiquarians. Take in a photo stop at the visually impressive Waitaki Hydro Power Scheme and Benmore Dam. The Waitaki River marks the boundary between the regions of Canterbury and Otago. From here it's on to Twizel and Omarama the heart of the Mackenzie Country.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner


Accommodation: Omarama - 1 night

A street in the Victorian Town Oamaru.
Set amongst landscaped gardens with views of the surrounding mountains, the Heritage Gateway Hotel is a peaceful place to stay. Featuring 98 comfortably furnished guest rooms, restaurant & bar.The Heritage Gateway is located 4 hours south of Christchurch and is truly the gateway to the South Island. This hotel has a full restaurant and cocktail bar both offering panoramic views of the Southern Alps.
Set amongst landscaped gardens with views of the surrounding mountains, the Heritage Gateway Hotel

8

Omarama - Christchurch

Your outlook this morning is the Canterbury Plains: the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, hemmed by snow-capped mountains and atmospheric towns. If it seems familiar, that’s because it regularly stars on postcards. Take it in on an optional scenic flight for added perspective of the Southern Alps and on to Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Back on the ground, it’s time to become reacquainted on a Christchurch tour, your in-the-know guide pointing out the city’s miraculous transformation over the last decade. Local spirit is strong here.   

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 night

Mount Cook National Park
This inviting and modern brand new hotel features contemporary rooms, Restaurant & Bar. Nearby to the Cashel Street Re:START mall - this "pop up" shopping precinct is the new vibrant heart of the city, featuring many new designer shops and modern cafes. The Hotel is very close to the famous Cathedral Square, the historic heart of the city providing easy access to local activities, outer lying attractions and the airport.
Ibis Hotel Christchurch.

9

Whales & Wine Country

Travel along the rugged Pacific Ocean coast to Kaikoura, famous for its whales (optional whale watching flight is available). Get up close and personal with some New Zealand Fur Seals at Ohau Point. Pass the Grassmere Salt Works then travel through the Marlborough region, world-famous for its Sauvignon Blancs amongst other quality wines and on to the pretty seaside fishing village of Picton for an orientation tour.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Picton - 1 night

Kaikoura
Accommodation:

A visit to lovely Picton is at its best with the brilliant harbour views of award-winning Beachcomber Inn hotel. Outstanding service and the scenic waterfront location distinguish this hotel from others. Ideally located a short walk from retail stores and less than a kilometer away from the Interislander ferry terminal. For other directions, Blenheim airport is less than half an hour away. Have a comfortable stay at this hotel and let it be part of your best memories of New Zealand.

Picton Beachcomber Inn

10

Wellington - Our Cool Little Capital

Cruise the tranquil Queen Charlotte Sound and across Cook Strait to Wellington, recently named 'The Coolest Little Capital in the World'. A city sights tour taking in New Zealand’s parliament buildings, leads into some free time. Why not indulge in Wellington’s renowned coffee culture, or take a walk along Lambton Quay before visiting the national museum Te Papa, where you'll gain insight into the country's fascinating nature, art, history and cultural heritage.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Wellington - 1 night

A small harbour in Wellington.
Accommodation:

Located in a modern tower 300m from the waterfront, the Travelodge is just a few minutes walk from the harbour and the centre of Wellington. Main attractions such as the famous Cable Car, Botanic Garden and Te Papa (the national museum) all are situated within walking distance so transportation in the city centre is unnecessary. From here it is easy to enjoy a city trip that includes everything you don't want to miss when visiting New Zealand's (culture) capital! 

Travelodge Wellington

11

Tongariro National Park / Cultural Evening

After departing Wellington, this morning you’ll travel north up the Kapiti Coast and journey north over the tussock plains of the Central Plateau through Tongariro National Park, view Lake Taupo and Huka Falls on your way to Rotorua.

The heartland of New Zealand’s North Island, Rotorua is host to some of the world’s most incredible geothermal forces. Geysers and clouds of steam are dotted around the city and the un-mistakable smell of sulphur gives the city an otherworldly feel. Here you’ll find natural wonders like the Pohutu geyser, erupting 20 times a day and spouting up to 100 feet, as well as bubbling mud pools, warm geothermal pools and sulphuric terraces in a variety of colours.

Tonight an evening of culture, history and scrumptious food awaits you at the Tamaki Family Marae. Wander through the ancient forest village and learn about Maori art forms and traditions, followed by a concert featuring local performers. Experience an authentic Maori Hangi meal, steamed underground in the traditional way.  

Meals: Breakfast and Highlight Dinner

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 Nights

Maori Cultural Evening
Accommodation:

Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Rotorua, this hotel offers tranquil surroundings with sensational views, near to many bars, restaurants and main attractions. The Ibis Rotorua offers great accommodation to travellers that want to make most out of their stay in New Zealand's geothermal area. 

Ibis Rotorua

12

Rotorua - the Cultural and Geothermal Centre

Today relax with ‘Free Time’ – you can choose from many interesting optional activities included unwinding at the Polynesian Spa  or choose to do a tour of Te Puia, where a local Maori guide will show you the mud pools and geysers of the geothermal valley. You could also take a fascinating tour of the Hobbiton movie set - your tour guide will suggest a myriad of options.

Meals: Breakfast

Rotorua Te Puia Pohutu Geyser

13

Glowworm Grotto’s / The ‘City of Sails'

Before you reach your final destination, get set to glow through the Waitomo Caves. While cruising cavernous limestone waterways, your route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, appears on the horizon, dazzling with not one, but two harbours.

Meals: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 night

Waitomo Glowworms
With its unbeatable location in Auckland’s epicentre on the corner of Wyndham and Albert Street, the brand new Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre is as convenient as it gets when visiting New Zealand’s harbourside city on business or on holiday.
Holiday Inn Express

14

Farewell Auckland

Haere rā and Bon Voyage!

Today we say farewell to newfound friends, leaving you with the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand holiday.

Meals: Breakfast

Auckland Viaduct

Inclusions

Trip Inclusions

Sightseeing Highlights

  • Visit a jade factory and marvel at artists at work
  • Discover fascinating Franz Josef Glacier
  • Taste Central Otago stone fruits at a local orchard
  • Travel past ancient glaciers, spectacular mountains and magical rainforest en route to Milford Sound
  • Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station
  • Cruise the Cook Strait from the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound to Wellington
  • Explore Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand
  • Journey through the magnificent scenery of Mt. Ruapehu Tongariro National Park
  • Immerse yourself in rich Maori culture with the Tamaki family over dinner

Tour Inclusions

  • Tour by luxury air-conditioned coach with 2-door access, restroom, seatbelts, reclining seats, panoramic windows
  • Tour with an experienced, professional Tour Director and Tour Driver

Included Meals

  •  13 Full buffet breakfasts
  •  1 Lunch
  •  2 Highlight dinners
  •  6 Dinners

Plus

  • Welcome Reception
  • Travel Wallet, Luggage Tags & Map of New Zealand
  • Hotel Porterage Included
New Zealand Marvel Tour Map

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What Emma says about this tour: What sets this 14-day group tour apart is the way it packs in so many cool New Zealand highlights and excursions. Travelling from the deep South to the Northern islands, you get a real understanding of kiwi culture and heritage. You stay in comfortable accommodation with great food, and get to soak up plenty of stunning scenery from your luxury coach.
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