Grand Pacific Tours – 14 Day Ultimate Panorama Itinerary

 
1

Welcome to the Garden City!

'Haere Mai’ - Welcome to New Zealand.

From the airport, we’ll take care of the transfer to your hotel where you can settle in before exploring New Zealand’s Garden City’. Take a punt on the Avon River, stroll the Botanic Gardens or visit the Re Start Mall, made entirely of colourful shipping containers. Relax at your hotel this evening before we begin our journey tomorrow.


Some suggested activities while in Christchurch.

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: Dinner

Accommodation: Quality Hotel Elms Christchurch or similar - 1 night

Accommodation:
The George, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and river Avon and just steps from the cultural precinct and key attractions. The George will offer you a supreme comfort, with personalised stay and attentive staff. The hotel is located in the heart of Christchurch, and its just steps away from cultural precinct and key attractions.
The George - Christchurch

2

Travel to Mount Cook Village

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.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Omarama - 1 night

A stunning destination surrounded by the silent splendor of the Southern Alps and with spectacular views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding National Park World Heritage area. There is a selection of properties within the Terrace Road campus from Hotel to Chalet and Mountainview Motels - all budgets and standards can be catered for.

Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

3

The Architectural Delights of Oamaru and Dunedin

We farewell Omarama before driving onwards to pretty Lake Benmore and making a stop in Oamaru. A picturesque seaside town, Oamaru is home to some of the most impressive 19th century architecture in the country. Later, we make our way further south to Dunedin, touring the city’s sights before enjoying a little free time and then a very special evening.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Dunedin - 1 night

The former Dunedin Chief Post Office (1937), transformed the 1937 former Chief Post Office in Dunedin into an elegant 4 1/2 star luxury hotel. It occupies an entire city block in The Exchange, the historic business centre of Dunedin. The impressive building was considered a monument to the importance of the role of the state and also to Dunedin's preeminent position as the country's most prosperous city. The Distinction Dunedin Hotel offers a variety of brand new accommodation to suit everyone from the businesses traveller requiring spacious and modern facilities to those wanting a relaxing weekend away.
The Distinction Dunedin Hotel

4

Te Anau - Gateway to Fiordland National Park

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 the Fiordland and your overnight stay. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (optional).

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Te Anau - 1 night [from 1 Sept 2023 stay at Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas]

 

Located on the Te Anau lake front, a short stroll from the Te Anau town centre, Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas is perfectly situated for you to make the most of this beautiful area. The rooms are very comfortable and the hotel has all the facilities you would expect from a property of this standard.Distinction Te Anua Hotel and Villas, offering chic, elegant accommodation. This 4 Star hotel is surrounded by extensive landscaped gardens where you can enjoy the spectacular view of Lake Te Anua and the Fiordland ranges.
Distinction Hotel Te Anau & Villas

5

Milford Sound Cruise - Queenstown

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 a picnic 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 free and you may choose to dine at one of the many fine restaurants.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Queenstown - 2 nights (or similar)

Millennium Hotel Queenstown is only minutes from Queenstown central shopping, entertainment and outdoor activities and offers a peaceful haven from the variety of activities in this lively city. With many guest rooms and suites to choose from the centre boasts a gym, sauna, spa, bar and restaurant, feature contemporary city-inspired designed. Many of our rooms also offer scenic views of the city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your journey.

Millennium Hotel Queenstown

6

Queenstown at Leisure

Experience Queenstown exactly how you want to today. Famous for adrenaline-pumping activities, choose to embark on a thrilling jet boat ride or white water rafting adventure. For those who prefer to take it easy, stroll the walking tracks of the Botanic Gardens or take a wine tasting tour in the Gibbston Valley.

This evening, we cruise across Lake Wakatipu on New Zealand’s oldest steamship (over 100 years old), the TSS-Earnslaw, before enjoying a special dinner and sheep shearing demonstration at Walter Peak Station.

Recommended Queenstown Excursions:

Routeburn Day Walk Highest Bungey Jump Explore 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 Specialty Dinner


7

Historic Arrowtown & Fox Glacier

Our destination this morning is only a short drive from Queenstown the charming, historic village of Arrowtown. Gold mining heritage comes alive on the banks of the Arrow River in the form of restored buildings and the Lakes District Museum. Afterwards, we continue on to the West Coast; driving over Haast Pass and alongside soaring peaks and emerald-green rainforests.

Arriving in Fox Glacier Village, we make our way to the impressive glacier itself – tumbling down from the Southern Alps almost to the sea, Fox Glacier is a magnificent showcase of the tremendous natural forces that shape the region. For a different perspective, you have the option to soar above the glacier on a scenic flight, provided the weather cooperates.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Fox Glacier - 1 night

After your day exploring the West Coast, spending the night at Distinction Fox Glacier in the beautiful Fox Glacier Village is a real treat. Tucked into the foothills of the Southern Alps, rooms here feature their own balcony, spacious bedroom and lounge area. Spend the evening relaxing in the guest lounge or browsing through the many books in the Hotel library. 


 
Distinction Hotel - Fox Glacier

8

Tranzalpine Rail Journey - Christchurch

We continue north to Hokitika, a creative town with a colourful history, stopping at the Greenstone Factory for an insight into the spiritual beliefs associated with this special semi-precious gem. Afterwards, we arrive at Arthur’s Pass where we board the Tranz Alpine railway and embark on a magnificent journey across the width of the country, admiring gorges, forests and soaring peaks on what has been labelled one of the world’s top 6 train journeys. Arriving in Christchurch, we are picked up by the coach and transported to tonight’s hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 night

Accommodation:
The George, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and river Avon and just steps from the cultural precinct and key attractions. The George will offer you a supreme comfort, with personalised stay and attentive staff. The hotel is located in the heart of Christchurch, and its just steps away from cultural precinct and key attractions.
The George - Christchurch

9

Cruise the Marlborough Sounds to Wellington

Travel along the East Coast to the seaside village of Kaikoura. 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 for your journey through the Marlborough Sounds and across Cook Strait to Wellington.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Wellington - 2 nights

The 5-star InterContinental Wellington is located by the harbor waterfront and just a short walk into the City Centre to experience the capital’s history, culture and shopping. It offers an exclusive club lounge, a fitness center, 2 restaurants and a bar. The elegant guest rooms are spacious and well-furnished. 
 

The InterContinental in Wellington.

10

Wellington - Our Cool Little Capital

This morning we gain an insight into the unique history, culture and lifestyle of the harbour side capital city of Wellington. We visit the national museum of Te Papa, which showcases an impressive array of exhibitions, artifacts and stories, helping to shed light on both the Maori and European history of New Zealand and its people. This evening, explore Wellington’s eclectic and bustling restaurant scene, where you can dine on delicious food accompanied by New Zealand wine or craft beers.

This evening you have free time to explore Wellington.

Here are some sight seeing and activity suggestions while in Wellington:

National Museum - Te Papa     Visit Cuba Street Weta Workshop Tour
Zealandia Wildlife Reserve 

Wellington Cable Car   

Carter Observatory 


Meals: Breakfast


11

Geothermal Rotorua

We bid farewell to the coast this morning, driving north through the rolling farmland of the Manawatu and towards the desolate, otherworldly environment of the Central Volcanic Plateau. Winding through Tongariro National Park we soak up views of three volcanoes – Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, standing proud and sentinel over the landscape. We continue past Taupo stopping to witness the magnificent fury of the Huka Falls before arriving in Rotorua, home to geothermal wonders and fascinating Maori legends. This will be our home for the next two nights.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 nights (or similar)

Accommodation:

Rotorua’s designer 5 star Boutique Hotel and Spa offers stylish luxury accommodation, with accommodation to suit most groups of travellers from Hotel rooms to 2 bedroom family apartments situated amidst the exciting attractions and experiences Rotorua has to offer. With excellent facilities such as the restaurant, heated pool, gym and mineral bathing facilities. 

Regent of Rotorua

12

Explore Rotorua - Māori and Hāngī

A special breakfast experience awaits us this morning. We ride the Skyline Gondola up a local mountain to dine on a delicious meal with magnificent views over Rotorua. Afterwards, we enjoy the kiwi humour on offer at the Agrodome Sheep Show before embarking on a guided tour of Te Puia. Boiling mud pools and huge geysers decorate the landscape in a restless natural splendour. This evening, we gain an insight into the Maori way of life during an entertaining Concert and Hangi Feast.


Meals: Breakfast and Specialty Dinner


13

Rotorua to Auckland via Hobbiton

This morning depart Rotorua and travel through the picturesque countryside to Hobbiton for a guided tour of the Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Your guide will recount details of how this beautiful piece of farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle Earth. Continue north to Auckland for an orientation tour. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your newfound friends.

Some Activities and sightseeing options if you have time:

Explore Waiheke Island     Island Kayaking Adventure     America’s Cup Sailing
Auckland's Sky Tower Relax on the Beach Rangitoto Island Cruise & Walk
West Coast Wine Tour Whale and Dolphin Safari Muriwai Surf Beach


Meals: Breakfast and Specialty Dinner

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 night 

Accommodation:
Located in the heart of Auckland’s CBD and entertainment hub, this hotel offers superior comfort, personal service and contemporary style. Only 2 minutes away from the Sky Tower, city attractions, entertainment and dining venues. Crowne Plaza Auckland is an award-winning Auckland hotel located in the heart of the city and offer the perfect balance of superior comfort, personal service and contemporary accommodation.
Crown Plaza Auckland

14

Homeward Bound

Haere rā and Bon Voyage!

Today it’s time to bid farewell to New Zealand and your travelling companions. Your transfer will pick you up from the hotel and transport you to the airport to catch your flight home.

Meals: Breakfast


Notes

INCLUSIONS

14 Day New Zealand Panorama

PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS

 

  • Larnach Castle*
  • Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch
  • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw
  • Lakes District Museum
  • TranzAlpine Rail Journey
  • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry
  • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum
  • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride
  • Agrodome
  • Thermal mud pools & geysers*
  • Traditional Maori Hangi & Concert
  • Hobbiton
  • City sights tour of Christchurch, Dunedin & Wellington 

*Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.

TOURING

  • Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival
  • Return airport transfers in New Zealand
  • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows
  • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide
  • 13 nights 3.5 star hotel accommodation
  • 3 two night stays
  • Hotel porterage
  • 3 cruises
  • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions
  • GST (New Zealand Goods and Services Tax)
  • Comprehensive documentation pack 

MEALS

  • 13 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua
  • 11 sumptuous dinners including 3 specialty dinners: Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua, Auckland Farewell Dinner
  • 1 picnic lunch
  • 1 delicious Devonshire Tea: Larnach Castle

Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.


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What Michelle says about this tour: These luxury of these coaches absolutely transforms this 14 Day Ultimate Panorama into another level of small group touring. As the seats are configured singles across the aisle you will have uninterrupted viewing. Fine accommodation and outstanding dining along with all of the best iconic New Zealand attractions means you will not be disappointed.
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