Tour Type: Premium Escorted Tour
Duration: 18 Days
Tour Starts In: Christchurch
Tour Finishes In: Auckland
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from NZ $6575 pp
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18 Day New Zealand Encounter Touring Route:
Tour Inclusions:
- Professional Tour Director
- Professional Luxury Coach Driver
- Admissions Outlined in the Itinerary
- Full Buffet Breakfasts (17) (B)
- 'You are invited' Lunch (1) (L)
- Exciting Highlight Dinner (3) (HD)
- Hotel Dinners (9) (D)
- Welcome Drink
- Travel Wallet and Map
- Airport Transfers (Day 1 from Christchurch Airport – flights to arrive prior to 4.00pm; Day 18 to Auckland Airport – flights anytime)
- Hotel Porterage Included
Included Tour Highlights:
- Skyline Gondola with stunning views over Lake Rotorua
- Sample wine and enjoy dinner at Marlborough Winery
- Experience the Scottish heritage of Dunedin at Larnach Castle
- Discover the sights of Christchurch on the Christchurch Tram
- See the Pancake Rocks and blowholes at Punakaiki
- Discover the beauty of the Southern Alps on-board the TranzAlpine Train
- View mighty Mt Cook, New Zealand's highest peak
- Cruise on the spectacular Milford Sound
- Enjoy a day at leisure in Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital
- View magnificent Franz Josef Glacier
- Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station
- Visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Reserve
- Cruise through the 'Hole in the Rock'
- Experience a Maori Hangi and Concert
- Explore Rotorua's geothermal wonderland with a local Maori guide at Te Puia
- View the mighty Huka Falls
- Visit Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum
- Scenic Interislander Cruise
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Day
1 |
Arrive Christchurch
On arrival at the hotel the afternoon is free for you to explore the 'Garden City' of Christchurch. This evening enjoy a welcome drink with your Tour Director. Stay: Novotel, Christchurch (D) |
Day
2 |
TranzAlpine – Punakaiki
Today enjoy a spectacular journey over the Southern Alps aboard the TranzAlpine Train. View the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes on arrival in Punakaiki, where we’ll spend the night at our hotel right on the waterfront. Stay: Punakaiki Resort, Punakaiki (B/D) |
Day
3 |
Punakaiki – Franz Josef
Travel via Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast, to Hokitika to visit a New Zealand native jade factory for a jewellery demonstration. Continue to Franz Josef Glacier. You can see it from the air on an optional scenic flight (weather permitting) or take a glacier hike. Stay: Te Waonui Forest Retreat (B/D) |
Day
4 |
Franz Josef - Queenstown
Our experience list is spectacular today.
Get your camera ready as we take in Haast Pass, Thunder Creek falls, a small
rainforest bush walk, Lake Wanaka,
Lake Hawea and Lake Dunstan. We’ll
enjoy the tastes of sumptuous stone
fruit at Cromwell - the stone fruit capital.
Next up, we visit historic gold mining Arrowtown on the Arrow River, previously
one of the world’s richest rivers. A
Queenstown orientation tour and group
photo finishes our day. Tonight you have
the option (own expense) to dine at Skyline Restaurant
at Bob’s Peak via the Southern
Hemisphere’s steepest Gondola! And
the Kiwi Haka Maori Show will top off a
great night out – if you so choose. Stay: Millennium Hotel, Queenstown (2 nights) (B) |
Day
5 |
Queenstown
Explore Queenstown at your leisure today. You could take an exhilarating jet boat ride or go white water rafting. For the less adventurous there are wine
and garden tours. Tonight board the historic steamship TSS Earnslaw for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station where you experience an entertaining sheep shearing demonstration, some friendly Kiwi hospitality and a sumptuous carvery dinner. (B)(HD) |
Day
6 |
Milford Sound
Today is a feast for the senses. Be wowed
and awestruck by the beauty of the World
Heritage Fiordland National Park. Keep
your camera close by as we see Mirror
Lakes, Pop’s Lookout, Cleddau Valley, The
Chasm, the hand-made Homer Tunnel,
Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls and stunningly
photogenic Milford Sound. The Devils Stair
Case and Lake Wakatipu pass us by. We take a magical cruise on Milford Sound seeing Mitre Peak and Bowen Falls. Overnight in pretty Te Anau. Tonight you have the option to see the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. Stay: Distinction Hotel, Te Anau (B/D) |
Day
7 |
Te Anau – Dunedin
Today we travel through rich fertile South Otago and enjoy time at leisure to explore charming Dunedin, founded by Scottish settlers. Take a Wildlife Cruise to see Penguins and the Royal Albatross, visit the Cadbury Factory or ride the historic Taieri Gorge Railway – you're free to discover Dunedin however you like. Stay: Southern Cross Hotel, Dunedin (B/D) |
Day
8 |
Dunedin
A guided tour of Larnach Castle and its
stunning gardens, New Zealand's only authentic castle starts the day. Enjoy
some free time in town, before we set
off to the white limestone buildings of
Oamaru and on to the Waitaki Hydro
Power Scheme and Benmore Dam. Stay: MacKenzie Country Inn - Deluxe Rooms, Twizel (B/D) |
Day
9 |
Mt Cook – Christchurch
Be wowed today with the sensational alpine landscape of Mt Cook National Park. A total scenic highlight, you may wish to see Mt Cook from above by taking an optional scenic flight. Visit Morelea Farm, a typical working sheep farm to discover an authentic taste of New Zealand Country life. You are welcomed into the home of your hosts Angie and Stan to enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch on their 300 hectare garden and gain an insight into the day to day operation of farm life. Later in the day we’ll continue on to Christchurch. Along the way we’ll see Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo, the Church of the Good Shepherd and travel over the patchwork countryside of the Canterbury Plains. On arrival in Christchurch we’ll have a city tour, ride the Christchurch Tram, then you get to discover more of Christchurch for yourself, your way – enjoy. Stay: Novotel, Christchurch (B) |
Day
10 |
Kaikoura - Blenheim
Between the mountains and the Pacific,
we travel the rugged East Coast to the
whale watching haven of Kaikoura.
Explore it as you wish. Take an optional
Scenic Whale Watching flight. On the way
to Blenheim, we’ll see New Zealand Fur
Seals up close at Ohau Point. On arrival
we’ll have an orientation tour. Tonight we’ll enjoy a tour, dinner and tasting at Georges Michel Wine Estate, a family owned and run winery in the heart of the Marlborough region. Stay: Chateau Marlborough, Blenheim (B)(HD) |
Day
11 |
Wellington
We join an Interislander Cruise through Queen Charlotte Sound and across Cook Strait, then explore Wellington on a sightseeing tour featuring views from Mount Victoria and free time at Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum. Te Papa allows you to experience the warmth and vibrancy of Maori culture. Stay: Novotel Capital, Wellington (B/D) |
Day
12 |
Wellington - Rotorua
We travel along the Kapiti Coast, past the
dairy farms of Manawatu to Tongariro
National Park. Here we’ll catch sights
of spectacular Mt Ruapehu. En route to
Taupo and Rotorua, we’ll see Lake Taupo
and the Huka Falls. A Rotorua orientation
tour takes in views of Lake Rotorua. The Realm of Tane, Hangi and Concert
is our cultural highlight this evening. Stay: Millennium Hotel, Rotorua, (2 nights) (B)(HD) |
Day
13 |
Rotorua Sightseeing
A ride on the Skyline Gondola and breakfast with stunning views over Lake Rotorua starts our day followed by an entertaining look at farm life at the Agrodome’s Sheep Show. Visit Te Puia and be accompanied by a local Maori guide for a tour of the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. This afternoon there is free time for you to relax, explore or join an optional tour. (B) |
Day
14 |
Rotorua - Auckland
We tour the Glow Worm Grotto and
limestone caves at Waitomo Caves. Then trace the gorgeous Waikato River
into Auckland for a tour of Mt Eden,
Bastian Point, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland
Harbour Bridge and more. Stay: Stamford Plaza, Auckland (B/D) |
Day
15 |
Auckland - Bay of Islands
We cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge, then settle back and take in the amazing scenery of the Hibiscus Coast. Walk amongst the magnificent Kauri trees at Parry Kauri Park. We have time to explore Whangarei, the northernmost city in New Zealand then it’s off to Paihia and the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Reserve which has 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 traditional meeting house. Stay: Copthorne Hotel & Resort, Bay of Islands (2 nights) (B/D) |
Day
16 |
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 Beach; dolphin watch, catch a ferry
to Russell, enjoy a guided sea-kayaking trip or a day of sailing. Tonight is at leisure – why not dine at a local restaurant? (B) |
Day
17 |
Bay of Islands - Auckland
This morning 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 out for marine life. This afternoon enjoy the lush farmland scenery as you return to Auckland, the City of Sails. Stay: Stamford Plaza, Auckland (B) |
Day
18 |
Depart Auckland
You will be transferred to Auckland Airport for your onward flight. (B) |
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Click on the icon to download the 18 Day New Zealand Encounter tour in pdf format. |
from NZ $6,575
18 Day New Zealand Encounter
5
3.8
5
18 Day New Zealand Encounter Reviews
Tour reviews from past clients of Relaxing Journeys for the 18 Day New Zealand Encounter. |
The tour was one of our best holidays. The tour director (Phil) and the driver (Murray) were great. Their sense of humour was contagious. We will definitely come back. Would it be possible for you to advise the hotels (were we had lovely dinners) to provide after dinner some music and may be a place to dance. People on holiday want some fun too!
Carmen & Mark Gordon (Australia)
Tour Date 18/12/2011 |
I have been home for a week however this is the first time that I have had to sit and inform you of my trip to New Zealand. Had a super time. Cannot complain about accommodation or meals and the weather was to die for. The tour became known as the 'sunshine tour'. We had cool mornings in a couple of places but really nice crisp days and luke warm sun. North Island turned on especially good weather, one day of rain but about 23 degrees for all days. Super! I reckon I met the best driver and the best tour director - two people who were passionate about their country and it showed - they provided brilliant commentary and a history of your country. If I had hired a vehicle and driven myself I wouldn't have gained the information that I did. Thx Georgie, it was all good!
Rosemary Adcock (Australia)
Tour Date 24/04/2011 |
I loved NZ, it is spotlessly clean, the people are friendly and welcoming and the scenery is beautiful. Our guide (Daryl) was knowledgable and informative and the group was lovely. The hotels were first class. I think that you should call the 'farm stay' a 'home stay' as the farm I stayed on was not a working farm which I would have like. My hosts were very hospitable and lovely but as I said it was not a 'farm stay', also if the tour was a few days longer it would be nicer, I know there was a lot of ground to cover but it was exhausting at times. I would recommend this trip to friends and family.
Veronica Scannell (Ireland)
Tour Date 14/03/2011 |
Thankyou so much for provided me with such a wonderful trip. The tour guide and driver were excellent very professional, knowledgable, helful, kind and incredibly fun! I learnt so much more about New Zealand than ever hoped. The whole tour was so relaxed, friendly, well planned and interesting. The hotels were absolutelty beautiful, with amazing staff and meals plentiful and of excellent quality. The whole planning of coach and meal seating gave everyone an opportunity to meet each other and enjoy different personalities and new cultures. Thankyou for providing me with such a hassel free amazing journey I have already started to plan my next journey with you for next year!
Janet Lane (Australia)
Tour Date 03/01/2010 |
Everything exceeded our expectations! Did not know exactly what to expect, but the entire trip was fantastic! NZ is a lovely land full of friendly, honest and helpful folk. Good value everywhere due to a favorable exchange rate for Americans. Maurai tour guide, Marty, was outstanding in every way. He was organized, very friendly and extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of the tour including customs, history, geology, etc. Bus driver, Linda, was also wonderful. Safe and friendly. Accommodations and food were top rate everywhere as promised. We were also blessed with great weather everywhere. My only complaint was in regards to the ferry crossing from south to north islands. At port the sign said 'moderate', but I was deathly ill from the moment we left the sound until we arrived at Wellington! None of this is anyone's fault except the port, who could be a bit more objective about sea conditions as MANY folks on the ship were very ill with huge waves crashing over the bow! All in all a wonderfully trip that we will recommending to our friends and relatives and remember fondly forever. Thank you. With Warmest Regards, Dennis & Charlotte Hart.
Dennis & Charlotte Hart (United States)
Tour Date 02/03/2009 |
Tour Prices
All tour prices are per person, twin share. |
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EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*
2012 Season Sale! Save up to $310 per person off the brochure price for this tour. Exclusive to Relaxing Journeys. Deposit this month to qualify!
Valid for bookings made with Relaxing Journeys between 1 February 2012 and 29 February 2012
. Subject to availability at time of booking. |
Tour
Starts |
Tour
Finishes |
Tour
Status |
Brochure
Price |
OUR
SPECIAL |
OUR
PRICE |
| 05 Feb 2012 |
22 Feb 2012 |
G |
NZ $6885 |
Save $310 |
NZ $6575 |
| 26 Feb 2012 |
14 Mar 2012 |
G |
NZ $6885 |
Save $310 |
NZ $6575 |
| 04 Mar 2012 |
21 Mar 2012 |
G |
NZ $6885 |
Save $310 |
NZ $6575 |
| 25 Mar 2012 |
11 Apr 2012 |
G |
NZ $6885 |
Save $310 |
NZ $6575 |
| 15 Apr 2012 |
02 May 2012 |
|
NZ $6885 |
Save $310 |
NZ $6575 |
| 22 Apr 2012 |
09 May 2012 |
G |
NZ $6885 |
Save $310 |
NZ $6575 |
*Tour Status: 'G' Tours are guaranteed to depart.
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Tour Discounts & Supplements:
Optional extras, single traveller supplement & multiple traveller discounts. |
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| Single Supplement: |
Add |
NZ $1,880 |
| Child Discount: |
Save |
NZ $1,375 |
| Frequent Traveller: |
Save |
NZ $345 |
| Triple Discount: |
Save |
NZ $345 |
| 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'. |
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