17 Day Festive Season Tour Itinerary

1

Welcome to Christchurch

'Haere Mai' ... Welcome to Christchurch! Now you can relax - you are officially on holiday. Everything has been taken care of, we will meet you at the airport.

After meeting our representative on arrival in Christchurch you will be transferred to your hotel. On the first evening, you can meet your travelling companions.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Christchurch - 2 Nights

Accommodation:

Heartland Hotel Cotswold Christchurch

Heartland Hotel Cotswold is located just minutes walk from the Christchurch Casino. The newly refurbished rooms comprise of suites, studios & motor-inn rooms with cooking facilities. Fitness centre, sauna, swimming pool, 24-hour reception, guest laundries, valet laundry & dry cleaning, room service are available. TheTudor style architecture is a perfect fit with Christchurchs reputation as the most English of cities, outside of England.

2

Christchurch (Free Day)

Today is a free day to explore Christchurch. You can enjoy a journey on board the Christchurch Tram at your leisure, one of Christchurch's leading attractions.

Some suggested activities 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: Breakfast

3

Christchurch - Omarama

After an introductory city sights tour you will depart Christchurch and travel through the southern Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo. See the brilliant turquoise water, visit The Church of the Good Shepherd and view the Sheep Dog Statue. Marvel at the spectacular mountain ranges including Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available (time and weather permitting) to enjoy a scenic flight (optional) over the Southern Alps before travelling to Omarama.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Omarama - 1 night

Accommodation:

Heritage Gateway Hotel Omarama

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.

4

Omarama - Dunedin

Depart Omarama and see Lake Benmore, before following the Waitaki River to Oamaru, famous for its limestone. Enjoy a city sights tour while continuing south to Dunedin. Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food, special Haggis Ceremony and gift.

Meals: Breakfast, Special Dinner

Accommodation: Dunedin - 1 night

Accommodation:

Dunedin Leisure Lodge - A Distinction Hotel

Dunedin Leisure Lodge is nestled within two acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, located adjacent to the Dunedin Botanic Gardens and just a six-minute drive from the city centre. Take in the beautiful garden views while you relax in McGavins Bar for a relaxing pre or post dinner drink. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, each with a balcony or outside patio, plus ample complimentary parking and a 24 hour reception.

5

Dunedin - Te Anau

On day 5 you will travel out along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle where you hear of the tragic and scandalous history on a guided tour. You will get some time to wander around this Garden of International Significance and enjoy a delicious Devonshire Tea. Farewell Dunedin and travel through Balclutha and Gore to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland and your overnight stay. If desired you have the possibility to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Cave.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Te Anau - 1 night

Accommodation:

Distinction Luxmore Hotel - Te Anau

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.

6

Te Anau - Milford Sound - 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 while enjoying a picnic lunch. In the afternoon you continue to Queenstown, overlooking magical Lake Wakatipu. The next two nights you spend at this year round resort which offers a wide range of activities and attractions.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Queenstown - 2 nights (or similar)

Accommodation:

Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront

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.

7

Queenstown - Christchurch

Merry Christmas! Today board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. You will enjoy a gourmet Christmas lunch and the best of NZ’s high country cuisine in the Colonel’s Homestead. Reboard the TSS Earnslaw and enjoy a sing along by the piano on your return cruise to Queenstown. On this free evening you may want to dine at one of the fine restaurants the city has to offer.

Recommended excursions around Queenstown:

Routeburn Day Walk	Highest Bungey Jump	Explore Arrowtown
Wine Tasting Central Otago	Biking Skippers Canyon	Round at Millbrook Golf Resort
Dart River Jetboat Safari	Gibbston Valley Wine Trail

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

8

Queenstown - Arrowtown - Fox Glacier

On day 8 you will travel to Arrowtown and visit the Lakes District Museum. Afterwards, you continue via the Haast Pass to the mighty West Coast, an area of stunning beauty. You will be able to see the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel north to the township of F ranz Glacier. Time is available (weather permitting) to experience a scenic flight (optional) over the spectacular glaciers.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Franz JosefGlacier - 1 night

Accommodation:

Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Situated on the very edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier will welcome you in true New Zealand style. The Hotel makes the most of its alpine location and is only moments from spectacular Franz Josef Glacier. The highly regarded Hot Pools are within walking distance. Featuring patios or balconies, the simple, warmly decorated rooms and suites include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges, plus tea and coffee making facilities. Suites add living areas. (formerly known as the Scenic Circle Franz Josef Glacier Hotel) has quality rooms with balcony views and special access.

9

Fox Glacier - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch

Today you will travel to Hokitika and visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue into Arthur’s Pass and board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. You will see many rivers and valleys as you travel through the Waimakariri Basin, over massive viaducts and through the patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains to the elegant city of Christchurch. On arrival, your coach will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 night

Accommodation:

Heartland Hotel Cotswold Christchurch

Heartland Hotel Cotswold is located just minutes walk from the Christchurch Casino. The newly refurbished rooms comprise of suites, studios & motor-inn rooms with cooking facilities. Fitness centre, sauna, swimming pool, 24-hour reception, guest laundries, valet laundry & dry cleaning, room service are available. TheTudor style architecture is a perfect fit with Christchurchs reputation as the most English of cities, outside of England.

10

Christchurch - Picton - Wellington

Today you travel along the East Coast to the seaside village of Kaikoura. Here you can 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, Dinner

Accommodation: Wellington - 2 nights

Accommodation:

Ibis Hotel - Wellington

Located right in the centre of Wellington the Ibis is only a short walk away from the bustle of Lambton Quay with its restaurants, cafes and walking distance to Parliament, TSB Arena, Westpac Stadium and New Zealand's National Museum, Te Papa. All guest rooms are contemporary with all expected mod-cons. Visit Vivant Restaurant and Bar for breakfast, lunch and dinner; situated on the ground floor.

11

Wellington

A highlight this morning will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views. Re-board your coach for an extensive city tour which showcases the history and culture on show. Enjoy free time in the city for the rest of the day.

Suggested outings in and around Wellington:

Carter Observatory	Visit Cuba Street	Weta Workshop Tour
Zealandia Wildlife Reserve	Wellington Cable Car

Meals: Breakfast

12

Wellington - Taupo - Rotorua

Depart Wellington and view the snow-capped peaks of Mt Ruapehu and Mt Tongariro as you travel to Lake Taupo. You will visit the spectacular Huka Falls and then travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 nights (or similar)

Accommodation:

Distinction Hotel Rotorua

The Distinction Hotel in Rotorua is only 500 m from to the famous Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. This 4-star hotel offers 3 restaurants, a bar, heated spa pools and a fitness centre. Free car parking and free Wi-Fi access are provided. All rooms and suites have a modern en suite bathroom, satellite TV and broadband internet access. Many rooms have a private balcony overlooking the golf course, pool area or forest.

13

Rotorua - New Year's Eve

Day 13 starts with a gondola ride and breakfast at the Skyline Rotorua. There is also time for a luge ride! Our next stop is Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education. You will visit Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and the awesome famous geysers. In the afternoon you can enjoy some free time. This evening you can experience an entertaining Maori Hangi and Concert and see in the New Year.

Recommended excursions in and around Rotorua:

See Geysers & Boiling Mud	Polynesian Hot Springs	Whirinaki Forest Walk
Thermally Active Golf	Biking the Mighty Forests	Flight to Volcanic Island
Museum of Art & History	Evening Cultural Experience	White Water Rafting

Meals: Breakfast, Special Dinner

14

Rotorua - Bay of Islands

This morning you will depart Rotorua and travel north via Auckland. You will continue to Paihia via Whangarei. Paihia is situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy an introduction to the Bay of Islands, location of the signing of the treaty between the Maori tribes and the British.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Bay of Islands - 2 nights

Accommodation:

Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge - Paihia

Commanding a memorable situation on the waterfront only 100 metres from Paihia wharf, near the township and close to the main attractions. Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia offers views across the Bay's brilliant blue green sea to famous Russell. This welcoming Paihia hotel is an ideal base from which to explore the scenic and historic Bay of Islands.

15

Bay of Islands

This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands on board a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. The cruise includes an island stopover at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. Stroll along the white sand beach, or walk to the top of the hill for scenic views over the entire Bay of Islands.This afternoon there is a range of optional activities available or you may choose to relax and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of the waterfront. This evening is also free and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).

Excursions available if you want to get 'Out and About' are:

Historical Island Cruise	Diving Rainbow Warrior	4WD Adventure Cape Reinga
Sailing the Islands	Sea Kayaking the Bay	Giant Kauri Forest Walk
Cultural Tour of Waitangi	Golf at Kauri Cliffs

Meals: Breakfast

16

Bay of Islands - Auckland

The penultimate day you will depart the Bay of Islands 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 you can enjoy a final dinner with your new found friends.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 night

Accommodation:

Rydges Auckland

New Zealand’s premiere Auckland accommodation is a vibrant mix of London sophistication, Sydney cool and New York style. The trademark warm Kiwi hospitality is just an added bonus at Rydges Auckland Hotel! Our contemporary accommodation in Auckland provides convenience and comfort for business and leisure travellers alike. The guest rooms have modern features and amenities such as, mini-bars, safes, irons and ironing boards, coffeemakers and hairdryers.

17

Farewell Auckland

"Haere rā" Goodbye!

Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.

We know you enjoyed the '17 Day Festive Season Tour' and our promise to make your travels through New Zealand as hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with lots of photos and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your holiday with us. Have a great homeward journey, farewell and hope to see you again soon.

Meals: Breakfast

Notes

Prepaid attractions

Christchurch Tram
Haggis Ceremony & Gift
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
Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise
Kauri Museum*
City sights tour of Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington & Auckland

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
Coach Captain & Tour Guide
16 nights 3.5 star hotel accommodation
5 two night stays
Hotel porterage
1 rail journey
4 cruises
All sightseeing and pre paid attractions
Comprehensive documentation pack

Meals

16 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua
13 sumptuous dinners including 2 specialty dinners: Haggis Ceremony, Dunedin; Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua
Christmas Day Lunch: Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown
1 picnic lunch
1 delicious Devonshire Tea: Larnach Castle

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