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EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL

17 Day Best of New Zealand
Low Cost Escorted Coach Tour starting in Auckland and finishing in Christchurch
Tour Type: Low Cost Escorted Tour
Duration: 17 Days
Tour Starts In: Auckland
Tour Finishes In: Christchurch
from NZ $3545 pp

17 Day Best of New Zealand Touring Route:

17 Day Best of New Zealand Touring Route

Tour Inclusions:

  • Professional Tour Director
  • Professional Luxury Coach Driver
  • Admissions Outlined in the Itinerary
  • Full Buffet Breakfasts (16) (B)
  • Exciting Highlight Dinner (1) (HD)
  • Hotel Dinners (10) (D)
  • Welcome Drink
  • Airport Transfers
  • Hotel Porterage & Service Charges

Tour Highlights:

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Day
1		 Arrive Auckland
On arrival at the hotel the remainder of your day is at leisure to explore Auckland. Perhaps you would like to visit the Sky Tower? Tonight enjoy a welcome drink with your Tour Director. Stay: Mercure Hotel, Auckland.
Day
2		 Auckland – Bay of Islands
Depart Auckland and travel along the hibiscus coast to the beautiful Bay of Islands. Take a scenic cruise through game fishing waters to Cape Brett and, weather permitting, through the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’ formation. The return cruise to Paihia meanders through picturesque islands – see deserted sandy beaches and secluded bays and keep your eyes peeled for the marine life. Stay: Copthorne Hotel & Resort (Garden View), Bay of islands (2 nights) (B/D)
Day
3		 Bay of Islands
Today is free for you to experience the beauty of the Bay of Islands at your own pace – perhaps take a coach trip to Cape Reinga, via idyllic Ninety Mile each; enjoy a guided sea-kayaking trip or a day of sailing. (B)
Day
4		 Auckland
This morning visit the Waitangi Treaty Reserve which is of great historical importance, as this is where New Zealand’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed. You will have time to explore the reserve and take in highlights such as the magnificent Maori War Canoe and Meeting House (Marae). This afternoon enjoy the lush farmland scenery as you return to Auckland. Stay: Mercure Hotel, Auckland (B/D)
Day
5		 Waitomo Caves
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Auckland, then journey south through the Waikato district to Waitomo. At the Waitomo Caves experience a guided tour and boat ride of the incredible Glow-worm Grotto. Then arrive at Rotorua for an orientation tour, with views of Lake Rotorua. Tonight enjoy a Maori Hangi feast and Concert and gain an insight into traditional Maori culture. Stay: Hotel Ibis Rotorua (2 nights) (B)(HD)
Day
6		 Rotorua
This morning we visit the Agrodome Sheep Show to enjoy an entertaining look at life on a New Zealand farm. The afternoon is ‘Free Time’ for you to take in all the other activities Rotorua has on offer. Perhaps take in a guided tour accompanied by a local Maori guide and share the beauty and history of the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve at Te Puia. Wander amidst pools of boiling mud and geysers of all sizes! (B)
Day
7		 Wellington
En route to Wellington we’ll view the Huka Falls, visit Taupo and drive along the shores of New Zealand’s largest lake. Discover the alpine scenery of Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park and the dairy farms of Manawatu. Travel along the Kapiti Coast into the capital city Wellington, for a city tour with views from Mt Victoria. Stay: Mercure Willis Street, Wellington (B/D)
Day
8		 Wellington - Picton
A morning of ‘Free Time’ in Wellington, followed by a visit to Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum. A photo opportunity at Parliament House, then this afternoon we join the inter-island cruise across Cook Strait and into the tranquil Queen Charlotte Sound, before arriving at the pretty fishing village of Picton on the South Island. Stay: Beachcomber Inn, Picton (B/D)
Day
9		 Picton - Christchurch
En route to Christchurch, we’ll get up close and personal with some New Zealand Fur Seals at Ohau Point, watch whales at Kaikoura, (optional scenic Whale Watching flight), travel along the rugged Pacific Ocean coast and across the Canterbury Plains. A city tour of Christchurch, the ‘most English city’ outside of England, then it’s ‘Free Time’. Stay: Hotel Ibis Christchurch (B)
  TranzCoastal Train Option
For a scenic feast journey on the TranzCoastal train between Picton & Christchurch, with the Kaikoura Mountain Range on one side and the rugged Pacific Ocean on the other. This option is only applicable for departures after September 2010. Additional cost $NZ 119 per person (B/D)
Day
10		 Mt Cook
Start the day your way – shop, ride the Christchurch Tram or just relax. Later travel over the colourful, patchwork plains of Canterbury. Visit beautiful Lake Tekapo and view the Church of the Good Shepherd. Continue past Mt Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's highest mountain. Time to take an optional scenic flight over this mighty mountain (weather permitting). Stay: Heritage Gateway Hotel, Omarama (B/D)
Day
11		 Dunedin
Follow the Waitaki River, passing hydro-electric dams at Waitaki and Aviemore. From the Waitaki Hydro Power Scheme and Benmore Dam, we travel through Oamaru - which is famous for its white stone buildings made of limestone, to Dunedin for a city tour. The afternoon is yours to explore Dunedin as you wish – take a wildlife cruise, visit the Cadbury Chocolate Factory or ride the historic Taieri Gorge Railway. Stay: Kingsgate Hotel, Dunedin (B/D)
Day
12		 Dunedin
After a morning of time to yourself and the opportunity to visit historic Larnach Castle we’ll cross rich fertile sheepfilled farming land to the South Island’s biggest lake - Lake Te Anau and the town of Te Anau. Optional Te Anau Glowworm Caves tour tonight. Stay: Kingsgate Hotel, Te Anau (B/D)
Day
13		 Milford Sound
Travel south towards Fiordland National Park through the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound where you will cruise on the waters of this natural wonder. Witness Mirror Lakes, Cleddau Valley, The Chasm, Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls and more. Travel along the Devils Stair Case and the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy a Queenstown orientation tour and group photo, followed by an alpine dinner with views over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain range. Stay: Mercure Queenstown Resort, Queenstown (2 nights) (B/D)
Day
14		 Queenstown
Today is at leisure for you to enjoy the many scenic delights of Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital. From wine and garden tours to jet boat rides and white water rafting, Queenstown will keep you occupied and exhilarated. For dinner you have the option to dine at the Skyline Restaurant on Bob’s Peak. Access is via the steepest Gondola in the Southern Hemisphere. Dinner options include the Kiwi Haka Maori Show. (B)
Day
15		 Fox Glacier
Enjoy a visit to Arrowtown, a colourful township steeped in local history. Next is Cromwell and its sensational stone fruit. Then it’s a trio of lakes – Lake Dunstan, Lake Hawea & Lake Wanaka. Travel through Haast Pass which winds its way through Mount Aspiring National Park and dramatic mountain and forest scenery. View Thunder Creek Falls and take a rainforest walk. Continue north along the coastal road to Fox Glacier – a rare, still advancing glacier. (optional Fox Glacier scenic flight). Stay: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, Fox Glacier (B/D)
Day
16		 Punakaiki & Christchurch
First we visit Hokitika, home of the native greenstone (jade) for a factory visit and jewellery demonstration. We travel through coastal Greymouth then view the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki before returning to Christchurch. Opportunity to journey on the TranzAlpine Train over the Southern Alps (please request at time of booking). Stay: Hotel Ibis Christchurch (B/D)
  TranzAlpine Train Option
Experience one of the world’s top 6 train trips aboard the TranzAlpine to Christchurch. Additional cost $NZ 162 per person from Greymouth (option is only applicable for departures after September 2010) or $NZ 118 per person from Arthur’s Pass. (option available on all departures)
Day
17		 Depart Christchurch
Today is yours, take your time exploring Christchurch – the Garden city – famous for its gardens and being the most english city outside of England. See Hagley Park and the Canterbury Museum – just make the most of it – it’s your last chance to experience New Zealand before we transfer you to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight. (B)
PDF To view this tour in pdf format click here for all departures leaving before October 2010. For next seasons departures October 2010 to September 2011 click here.

Reviews from past clients of Relaxing Journeys.

Reviews have been listed with the latest on top. Click to view client testimonials for all tours.
The tour was everything we could have hoped for and more. We felt very looked after and both our driver, Tamati, and guide, Ted, were excellent. We highly recommend this tour, it was great.
Deborah & Kim (Walter) Mysyk (Canada)
Tour Date 12/06/2010
Thank you for managing my beautiful holiday in New Zealand. I choose from your wide range of tours the Best of New Zealand 17 days tour. I was very satisfied with program of the tour, the perfect organisation and kindness of tour director and tour driver. I have learnt lot of information about New Zealand and about you Kiwis. It was a pleasure to spend some time in your home country. Thanks you very much.
Katerina Saskova (Czech Republic)
Tour Date 06/03/2010
Just a quick note to say what a wonderful time I had on my holiday in NZ. The AAT Kings tour was great, the weather was lovely compared to the cold/ frosts here at the moment. Thank you for sorting out my pre and post tour accommodation. The Sudima in Rotorua was lovely they gave me a lake view room which was a delight each morning to sip my coffee overlooking the lake and deciding what to do that day. This was a lovely introduction to NZ and I definitely plan to return again in the future. Thank you again and may I wish you Seasons greetings and best wishes for the New Year.
Gillian Figures (United Kingdom)
Tour Date 17/12/2007
We have just returned from New Zealand, having travelled on the AAT Kings tour 'Best of New Zealand', arranged through yourselves. I would just like to say we had a wonderful time and hope it won't be too long before we can return. We were impressed by every aspect of the tour, and everyone we met was friendly and helpful. I almost gave up hope of meeting a grumpy kiwi but finally managed at Auckland airport in the person of the lady taking my departure tax! Even the weather was good throughout. While you were having rain for Waitangi Day we had sunshine in the South Island. Thank you again, best wishes.
John & Stephane Mowbray (United Kingdom)
Tour Date 16/02/2007
When I booked the tour of NZ back in April it seemed such a long time before it happened but... it's come and gone. We are back from the best holiday ever. We loved New Zealand. In our opinion it is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Thank you for making it happen.
Jose & Stana Gomez (Australia)
Tour Date 10/10/2006

Tour Prices

All tour prices are per person, twin share.

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*

Save up to $NZ 150 per person off the brochure price!

Valid for bookings made with Relaxing Journeys between 1 September 2010 and 30 September 2010 . Subject to availability at time of booking.



Tour
Starts		 Tour
Finishes		 Tour
Status		 Brochure
Price		 OUR
SPECIAL		 OUR
PRICE
04 Sep 2010 20 Sep 2010 G NZ $3695 Save $150 NZ $3545
25 Sep 2010 11 Oct 2010 G NZ $3695 Save $150 NZ $3545
02 Oct 2010 18 Oct 2010 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
05 Oct 2010 21 Oct 2010 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
09 Oct 2010 25 Oct 2010 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
16 Oct 2010 01 Nov 2010 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
23 Oct 2010 08 Nov 2010 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
30 Oct 2010 15 Nov 2010 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
06 Nov 2010 22 Nov 2010 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
13 Nov 2010 29 Nov 2010 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
20 Nov 2010 06 Dec 2010 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
27 Nov 2010 13 Dec 2010 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
11 Dec 2010 27 Dec 2010 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
18 Dec 2010 03 Jan 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
25 Dec 2010 10 Jan 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
01 Jan 2011 17 Jan 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
08 Jan 2011 24 Jan 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
15 Jan 2011 31 Jan 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
18 Jan 2011 03 Feb 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
22 Jan 2011 07 Feb 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
29 Jan 2011 14 Feb 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
01 Feb 2011 17 Feb 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
05 Feb 2011 21 Feb 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
08 Feb 2011 24 Feb 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
12 Feb 2011 28 Feb 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
15 Feb 2011 03 Mar 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
19 Feb 2011 07 Mar 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
22 Feb 2011 10 Mar 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
26 Feb 2011 14 Mar 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
01 Mar 2011 17 Mar 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
05 Mar 2011 21 Mar 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
08 Mar 2011 24 Mar 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
12 Mar 2011 28 Mar 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
15 Mar 2011 31 Mar 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
02 Apr 2011 18 Apr 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
09 Apr 2011 25 Apr 2011 NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770
30 Apr 2011 16 May 2011 G NZ $3920 Save $150 NZ $3770

*Tour Status: 'G' Tours are guaranteed to depart.

Tour Discounts & Supplements:

Optional extras, single traveller supplement & multiple traveller discounts.
 
Single Supplement: Add NZ $1,150
Child Discount: Save NZ $775
Frequent Traveller: Save NZ $195
Triple Discount: Save NZ $195
Friendly Fours: Save NZ $195
Concession Cards: Save NZ $90

*Terms & Conditions apply to any discounts and/or specials above. Your designated tour consultant will apply the appropriate discounts automatically to your quote and detail any currently applicable 'Exclusive Specials'.
Georgie Walpole

Your Tour Consultant Will Be:

Georgie Walpole
Aussie & Kiwi Specialist
Email: georgie@relaxingjourneys.co.nz
Expertise: Coach Touring, New Zealand, Australia
Tour Details:
Tour Start Date:*
No. of Adults:*
No. of Children:* Children (6-15 years)
Accommodation:*  
Tour Option(s): TranzAlpine Train (Opt 1. Christchurch to Arthurs Pass)
TranzAlpine Train (Opt 2. Christchurch to Greymouth)

Note: Both options also operate in reverse depending on the itinerary. Opt 2. availaible for departures after Sep 2010 only.
  TranzCoastal Train (Picton to Christchurch)

Note: TranzCoastal option also operates in reverse depending on the itinerary. Availaible for departures after Sep 2010 only.
  Single Supplement (own room required)
Concession Card Holder
Your Details:
First Name:*
Surname/Family Name:*
Home Address:*
Country:*
Contact Phone: (e.g +61 7 1234567)
E-mail Address:*
Other Passengers:
Full Name(s):* e.g. Mr Paul Smith, Mrs Joan Smith
Pre & Post Tour Accommodation (Recommended):
Pre Tour Nights: (room only including airport transfers)
Post Tour Nights: (room only including airport transfers)
General Information:
Tour Questions:
 Please specify if you have any special requirements. e.g dietary, physical, medical.
   I have read and accept the Terms and Conditions.
 
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