Grand Pacific Tours - 19 Day Signature Rail, Cruise and Coach Itinerary

Grand Pacific Tours - 19 Day Signature Rail, Cruise and Coach Itinerary
1

Welcome to Auckland!

‘Haere Mai’ and welcome to the ultimate New Zealand holiday.

Upon arriving at Auckland Airport you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel. Check in and freshen up before spending the remainder of the day exploring the ‘City of Sails’. Stroll the walkways of the Viaduct, peruse the boutique shops of the central city or visit the Sky Tower, the Southern Hemisphere’s tallest building, for fantastic views of the harbour and beyond.

This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink when you meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner.

Activities and sightseeing options if you have time:

Explore Waiheke Island    Island Kayaking Adventure    America’s Cup Sailing
Auckland's Sky TowerWhale and Dolphin SafariRangitoto Island Cruise & Walk

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Auckland City
Located in the heart of cosmopolitan Auckland, the recently refurbished Grand Millennium Hotel Auckland is New Zealand's largest hotel and within walking distance to Queen Street and Viaduct Harbour with fine dining, shopping and entertainment venues at your doorstep. The hotel features 452 elegant, oversized guest rooms and suites that will ensure comfort and convenience.
Grand Millennium Hotel

2

Paihia - The Enchanting Bay of Islands

Enjoy a city tour of Auckland, dubbed the ‘City of Sails’, before travelling to Matakohe to enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum. Travel via Whangarei to Paihia, situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands.

This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Maori tribes and the British.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Paihia - 2 Nights

Bay of Islands
Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands has a sub-tropical resort ambience, with island-influenced architecture, beautifully landscaped grounds and light airy rooms.It's a perfect base to explore the beautiful Bay of Islands. Just a short walk from Paihia's village centre and the wharf. The Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands is a 4 star hotel. The Nikau Restaurant and Lounge Bar operates within the hotel and serves a la carte or buffet breakfast or dinner.
Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands

3

Bay of Islands at Leisure

Today is a day at leisure to choose from the many optional activities available, including a tall sailing ship experience or a spectacular scenic flight. This evening is also free and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).

Excursions available in the Bay of Islands:

Historical Island Cruise  Diving Rainbow Warrior  4WD Adventure Cape Reinga
Sailing the Islands  Sea Kayaking the Bay  Giant Kauri Forest Walk

Meals: Breakfast

Russell Northland

4

Paihia to Auckland

This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands aboard a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over Piercy Island, or as it is popularly known, the ‘Hole in the Rock’. Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life. Upon return to Paihia, travel south via Whangarei, before returning to Auckland. This evening is free to explore the many eateries surrounding your hotel. 

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Hole in the Rock Cruise
Located in the heart of cosmopolitan Auckland, the recently refurbished Grand Millennium Hotel Auckland is New Zealand's largest hotel and within walking distance to Queen Street and Viaduct Harbour with fine dining, shopping and entertainment venues at your doorstep. The hotel features 452 elegant, oversized guest rooms and suites that will ensure comfort and convenience.
Grand Millennium Hotel

5

Vintage Rail Journey and Travel to Rotorua

Leaving Auckland, our path takes us to Glenbrook Vintage Railway for a 15-kilometre (9 mile) journey back in time on a vintage steam train that’s been beautifully restored. We tour the restoration workshop and enjoy morning tea back at the Station. Afterwards, we continue through stunning countryside to Rotorua, our home for the next two nights.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 Nights

Glenbrook Vintage Railway

A brand new build completed in late 2018, the Pullman hotel in Rotorua boasts panoramic views of the city and lake area and feature a sophisticated executive lounge - a hallmark of every Pullman hotel - business lounge, chill-out lounge, restaurant and bar, gymnasium, car parking as well as five meeting rooms catering for conference and events - This is Rotorua's latest 5 Star property.

Pullman Hotel Rotorua

6

Explore Rotorua - Māori Experience and Hāngī

We start the day with panoramic views over Rotorua aboard a Gondola Ride, there is also time for a luge ride! The next stop is Agrodome for an action-packed hour of farming entertainment and education that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Enjoy some free time 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 Maori Hangi and Concert.

Meals: Breakfast, Specialty Dinner

Maori Rotorua

7

Rotorua to Wellington via Taupo

Travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to the spectacular Huka Falls. Continue to Lake Taupo for some free time to enjoy this scenic lakeside town. Travel via the Tongariro National Park and continue south to New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Wellington - 2 Nights

Huka Fall
Wellington's iconic hotel, James Cook Grand Chancellor is situated right in the heart of the city. The friendly staff and excellent service will help make your stay in Wellington a memorable one. With well appointed rooms that all have high speed internet access, Sky TV, in house movie system, iron and board, full minibar and tea/coffee making facilities. They also offer Bodyhaven Spa Style Boutique and a complimentary in-house gymnasium.
James Cook Wellington

8

Wellington Tour & Leisure Time

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. This afternoon ride the Wellington Cable Car to Kelburn Station where you can explore the Cable Car Museum or stroll through the Botanic Gardens. This evening is also free to explore Wellington’s lively food scene. 

Meals: Breakfast

Beautiful picture of the harbour of Wellington.

9

Cruise and Coastal Pacific Train to Christchurch

This morning board the Interislander Ferry, cross Cook Strait, and travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton.  

Join the Coastal Pacific, a truly spectacular rail journey that showcases the Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side and the rugged scenic coastline on the other. Travel through numerous tunnels and across several bridges before rejoining your coach in Kaikoura. Travel south by coach through some of the finest farmland area’s to the garden city of Christchurch.

Meals - Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Christchurch - 2 Nights

Interislander Ferry Crossing
The Distinction Hotel is a brand new hotel opening in 2019 in the revitalised heart of Christchurch and Cathedral Square. Centrally located and a short stroll to the Botanical Gardens, New Regent Street, the Arts Centre, and Avon River. This luxury Christchurch hotel offers 179 elegant, air-conditioned hotel rooms including 3 floors of brand new Superior Rooms and Suites.
Distinction Hotel Christchurch

10

Explore Christchurch - The Garden City

Today visit the International Antarctic Centre, designed to provide an informative account of life in Antarctica. This is followed by an introductory city tour of Christchurch. This afternoon includes a journey on board the Christchurch Tram at your leisure, one of Christchurch’s leading attractions. This evening is free to explore the local cuisine.

Suggested Activities Options for Christchurch:

Christchurch GondolaPunting the Avon River  Clearwater Golf
Arthur's Pass TranzAlpine HikeFrench Akaroa TourSouthern Alps Ballooning

Meals: Breakfast

Christchurch

11

TranzAlpine Train Journey into Glacier Country

Embark this morning on one of the top six train journeys in the world, on board the TranzAlpine Railway. Spanning the width of the South Island, this journey showcases spectacular gorges, ribbon-like rivers, massive viaducts, and soaring peaks – don’t forget your camera! We disembark at Arthur’s Pass and continue on to Hokitika, a small town steeped in gold mining and pioneering history that is famous for its pounamu (greenstone).

Later in the afternoon, we reach our destination for the night – Franz Josef Village, home to the ancient flow of ice that is the Franz Josef Glacier. Weather permitting, enjoy unforgettable views high above the glaciers with an optional scenic flight.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 1 Night

Glacier Country
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. 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.
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

12

Queenstown via Haast Pass

See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you journey inland, crossing the Haast Pass and driving on to picturesque Queenstown. Admire the soaring Remarkables Mountain Range and soak up the panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu, the shores on which the town is built. Tonight, enjoy a magical evening of free time; here, the options for drinks beside the lake or delicious dining are endless.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Queenstown - 2 Nights

Queenstown Wharf

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

13

Queenstown at Leisure

Explore everything Queenstown has to offer and do it your way on a day of leisure. Your crew can assist you in crafting the perfect day. You can get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling wilderness jet boat ride or a white water rafting adventure, or if you prefer something more relaxing like a wine tour in the stunning vineyards of the Gibbston Valley, you won’t be disappointed.

In the evening, prepare for a very special night across the other side of Lake Wakatipu. We board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise to Walter Peak Station where we enjoy a delightful meal of delicious country cuisine. A short farm tour follows our dining experience before we re-board the ship for a return journey complemented by live piano music.

Recommended Queenstown Excursions:

Earnslaw Steamboat Cruise  Highest Bungey JumpGibbston Valley Wine Trail

Wine Tasting Central Otago      

Dart River Jetboat Safari     Round at Millbrook Golf Resort

Meals: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner

Dart River Jet Boat

14

Milford Sound Overnight Cruise

This morning travel to Arrowtown and Visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via Te Anau to Milford Sound and board the Milford Mariner, for your amazing overnight cruise. Milford Sound is home to three species of dolphin, along with fur seals and penguins. 

Return under sail and anchor overnight in Harrison Cove. There are opportunities to explore the shoreline by tender boat or kayak (swimwear required) - or to simply relax on board. Stay in a private cabin with en suite, enjoy a sumptuous buffet dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Onboard Milford Mariner - 1 Night

Milford Sound
Accommodation:
Spend the night aboard the Mariner and wake up to the dawn of a new day in one of the most beautiful places on earth. The Milford Mariner then anchors in a sheltered cove, where you can join the nature guide and explore in the vessel’s tender craft (small boat) and kayaks. Or relax on deck and soak in the beauty of this amazing place or go for a swim. As evening falls, enjoy a delicious carvery buffet in the dining saloon, prepared freshly by our onboard chef.
Milford Sound Overnight Cruise

15

Milford Sound to Te Anau

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast aboard the boat before cruising out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) to soak up more stunning fiord scenery. Returning back to the wharf, we meet the coach and enjoy the sights of the Milford Road once more on the way back to Te Anau.

Return back to the wharf to meet your coach and enjoy the scenic drive to Te Anau where you will enjoy an afternoon at leisure. You may like to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (optional).

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Te Anau - 1 Night

Glowworm Caves
Located to make the most of this beautiful area on the Te Anau lake front, a short stroll from the Te Anau town centre. Distinction Te Anua Hotel and Villas, offers chic, elegant and comfortable room options. 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

16

Dunedin - "Edinburgh of the South"

Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin, famous for its stunning Edwardian and Victorian architecture dating back to the gold rush of the 1800s. Enjoy a city tour of New Zealand’s oldest university city. 

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Dunedin - 2 Nights

Dunedin city.
The Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is Dunedin's largest and most established hotel. Located in the heart of Dunedin, this hotel has been extensively refurbished and now provides guests with modern style, exquisite quality, convenience and exceptional service. Your every comfort is well provided for, with 178 attractive rooms and suites, extensive hotel facilities, and a very high standard of service. This has earned the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross a 4-star plus Qualmark rating, as well as the Enviro-Silver award.
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross - Dunedin

17

Larnach Castle and Free Time

Travel along the picturesque Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle. On a guided tour you will hear the tragic and scandalous tales which make up the castle’s history. Enjoy time to wander around this Garden of International Significance followed by a delicious Devonshire Tea. Return to Dunedin for some free time.

Optional activities to consider include a wildlife excursion to observe animals in their natural habitat or a guided tour of Olveston Historic Home, containing a wealth of treasures of a bygone era. 

Meals: Breakfast 

Beautiful view of Larnach Castle.

18

Christchurch via Oamaru

Today travel to the small town of Oamaru, famous for its limestone architecture before continuing to Christchurch. This evening enjoy a pre-dinner drink and reminisce on memories shared with your new friends at the farewell dinner. 

Meals: Breakfast, Specialty Dinner

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Insight into the historic Oamaru.
The Distinction Hotel is a brand new hotel opening in 2019 in the revitalised heart of Christchurch and Cathedral Square. Centrally located and a short stroll to the Botanical Gardens, New Regent Street, the Arts Centre, and Avon River. This luxury Christchurch hotel offers 179 elegant, air-conditioned hotel rooms including 3 floors of brand new Superior Rooms and Suites.
Distinction Hotel Christchurch

19

Depart Christchurch

Haere rā and Bon Voyage!

We are sure you will enjoy this tour and our promise is to make your travels through New Zealand as hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with huge smiles on your faces when recalling your time in New Zealand! Have a great homeward journey, farewell and hope to see you again soon in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Meals: Breakfast

Itinerary Variations:
The provider strives to improve trip itineraries. If improvements can be made, or if circumstances beyond their control make changes necessary, the provider reserves the right to vary itineraries and to make substitutions.


 

Punting on Avon River

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What katarina says about this tour: This trip combines the best rail journeys with stunning scenery an. highlight overnight cruise at Milford Sound. With most dinners included and a high quality comfort coach - there is so much to enjoy daily on this 19 day trip to New Zealand.
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