Tour Type: Low Cost Escorted Tour
Duration: 14 Days
Tour Starts In: Christchurch
Tour Finishes In: Auckland
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from NZ $3550 pp
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14 Day Classic Scenic Explorer Touring Route:
Tour Description:
This 14 day coach tour holiday gives you a taste of both the North and South Islands incorporating the TranzAlpine and TranzCoastal train journeys. Departing from Christchurch, and visiting all the key highlights en route to Auckland creates the perfect blend of scenery and culture New Zealand has to offer.
During the course of the tour you will enjoy free time in Dunedin, Queenstown and Rotorua to include some of the unique and regional optional sightseeing activities available.
Tour Highlights:
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Day
1 |
Arrive Christchurch
Welcome to New Zealand! You will be met with a smile and transferred to your hotel accommodation by a tour representative. En route you will see why Christchurch is aptly named "The Garden City" passing beautiful gardens and the impressive Hagley Park on the way to your hotel. Tonight meet your New Zealand Tour travelling companions at Welcome Drinks hosted by a tour representative. Stay: Pavilions Hotel |
Day
2 |
Christchurch – Mt Cook – Omarama
As you leave the most English city outside of England, your coach captain will highlight the main attractions of the city of Christchurch. From the arable plains travel inland to the rolling green pastures of Geraldine and onto the semi barren land of MacKenzie Country. In the heart of the MacKenzie Basin Tekapo is nestled on shores of azure Lake Tekapo. You will visit The Church of the Good Shepherd, quite likely the most photographed church on your South Island Tour.
There is an opportunity to fly over the Southern Alps with Air Safaris (optional). From Tekapo continue on your New Zealand Coach Tour to Mt Cook National Park. Here you have an opportunity to visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Centre - a tribute to New Zealand's greatest explorer and world renowned mountaineer. Travel back down the valley along the shores of Lake Pukaki, through Twizel (the town of trees) before arriving at your destination, Omarama, nestled in the velvet type tussock covered hills of the Lindis range. Stay: Heritage Gateway Hotel |
Day
3 |
Omarama – Dunedin
As your New Zealand holiday continues, follow the beautiful braided Waitaki River east, passing Benmore and Avemore hydro lakes before reaching the Pacific Ocean at Historic Oamaru. En route visit Moeraki Boulders, marvelling at the huge spherical stones, found strewn along a stretch of Koekohe Beach near Moeraki. These boulders are grey-coloured concretions which have been exposed through shoreline erosion from black mud stone coastal cliffs that back the beach.
An early arrival into Dunedin, "The Edinburgh of the South" allows you plenty of time to explore this nature lover's playground. Take the opportunity to experience at least one of these optional tours - combine a Monarch Harbour Cruise with a Newton's Citibus tour, and see penguins, albatross and seals.
Alternatively take a nostalgic trip on the Taieri Gorge Train, leaving from Dunedin's historic Railway Station. Maybe you would rather visit Cadbury World and Speights brewery, both options filling you one way or the other. Your coach captain will be more than happy to assist with any bookings. This evening prior to dinner, you are treated to a traditional Scottish Haggis Ceremony complete with the address to the Haggis, bag pipes and a bonnie wee dram. Stay: Cargills Hotel |
Day
4 |
Dunedin – Lake Manapouri – Te Anau
This morning visit the historic Olveston House and feel as though you have stepped back to the early 1900's to experience the opulence of a bygone era. Then it is back to the present as you travel south west over rich fertile farmlands, through the agricultural service towns of Balclutha, Gore, and other small villages.
As you proceed inland past wind turbines and deer farms and across rural farmland, if weather and time permit, visit the mysterious Lake Manapouri, (the Lake of Many Islands), before reaching Lake Te Anau, the Gateway to Fiordland. Stay: Distinction Luxmore Hotel |
Day
5 |
Te Anau – Milford Sound – Queenstown
Leaving Te Anau, your coach will travel on one of the highest and most scenic state highways in New Zealand through Fiordland National Park, following the Eglington and Hollyford Valleys. Pass through the Homer Tunnel before descending into the Cleddau Canyon and magnificent Milford Sound. Experience Milford Sound, the eighth wonder of the world, from the water as a launch cruise takes you to the Tasman Sea returning via the raging Bowen Falls and Stirling Falls. A truly exhilarating experience.
Return through Te Anau to Kingston before hugging the shores of Lake Wakatipu to reach New Zealand's adventure capital, Queenstown. This evening's dinner is up the Skyline Gondola where you dine atop Bob's Peak overlooking Queenstown. Enjoy 220 degree breathtaking panoramic views of The Remarkables mountain range and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peaks. Stay: Rydges Hotel (2 nights) |
Day
6 |
Queenstown
A day to explore the many delights of this stunning alpine resort. Try the world renowned Shotover Jet, an excursion to Skippers Canyon in search of gold, Double Decker coach to quaint Arrowtown, or even a bungy jump. Alternatively, explore Queenstown's many boutiques and galleries - your coach captain will be more than happy to assist with any optional sightseeing. |
Day
7 |
Queenstown – Haast Pass - Fox Glacier
Pass picturesque Lake Hayes then on to an area steeped in fascinating history relating to early settlement and the gold mining era, to Lake Wanaka, a picture postcard resort on the lakes edge with a spectacular mountain backdrop. Pass Lake Hawea and the upper reaches of Lake Wanaka to Makarora, cross the Haast Pass into the Mt Aspiring and Westland National Parks.
Drive north along the coast through the flourishing rainforests of the West Coast and onto the glorious Glacier region. This is an ideal opportunity for you to experience small town New Zealand in the heart of Westland. The rainforest and surrounding area is so green it will hurt your eyes. (Upon arrival into Fox Glacier there is opportunity to either take an optional guided walk to the glacier's terminal face or an optional exhilarating helicopter flight over the glacier).
Both these options are at your own expense and are very weather dependant. Stay: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier |
Day
8 |
Fox Glacier – Greymouth – Christchurch
Time for an optional helicopter flight over the glacier then on to Franz Josef. Snow capped Southern Alps dominate the skyline as you pass dense bush, tiny landlocked lakes and small pockets of farmland. Visit a Greenstone (Jade) factory where craftsmen cut and polish greenstone cut from giant boulders to create fine jewellery. Now join the TranzAlpine Train for one of the most spectacular rail journeys in the world. Through rainforests to Otira, snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps, the rugged Gorges of the Waimakariri River and across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. Stay: Pavilions Hotel |
Day
9 |
Christchurch – Kaikoura - Blenheim
Join the Coastal Pacific for a kaleidoscope of scenery across fertile Canterbury farmland through the Hundalee Ranges. Follow the Pacific coastline, with the Kaikoura Mountains forming a rugged backdrop to the west, passing tiny holiday settlements and Kaikoura, famous for whale-watching. Arrive in Blenheim early afternoon. A short tour of the area includes a visit to Brancott Estate Winery. Enjoy a hosted tour of the winery, learn about and taste a range of the famous local wines (purchase if you wish) followed by afternoon tea. Stay: Scenic Hotel Marlborough |
Day
10 |
Blenheim – Picton – Wellington
Drive to Picton, nestled on the shores of the Marlborough Sounds, to board the Interislander Ferry. Sail through picturesque Queen Charlotte Sound, sheltered waterways, remote bays and isolated holiday homes. Across Cook Strait and into Wellington for spectacular views of New Zealand’s Capital City. A city tour takes you to the summit of Mt Victoria for panoramic views of the city and harbour, the Houses of Parliament and distinctive "Beehive", Wellington Cathedral, the city centre and Oriental Bay. There is ample time for you to explore the city yourself. Don't miss Te Papa, the "Museum of New Zealand" or take a ride on the famous Cable Car. Your coach captain will be happy to assist you with any additional sightseeing. Stay: Bay Plaza Hotel |
Day
11 |
Wellington – Taupo – Rotorua
Drive to Paekakariki with views of Kapiti Island. On a clear day you may glimpse a last look at the South Island. Cross the Himitangi Plains, through the towns of Levin and Foxton to Bulls. Cross rolling farmland to the Volcanic Plateau and Tongariro National Park, dominated by the three volcanoes - Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro & Mt Ngauruhoe. Follow the Desert Road to Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, famous for trout fishing.
Stop at the Huka Falls, where the Waikato River is squeezed through a 20 metre wide gorge and gushes into a beautiful sapphire pool. Pass through the Wairakei Geothermal area and power station en route to Rotorua. Whether seeking to experience Maori culture, geothermal sights or adventure activities, your coach captain will be happy to assist with any optional sightseeing. Stay: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (2 nights) |
Day
12 |
Rotorua
An action packed day today with many included sightseeing activities. First a visit to Agrodome, for an exciting and informative insight into the world of New Zealand agriculture, featuring 19 breeds of sheep, sheep shearing, cow milking, lamb feeding and sheepdog demonstrations. Next stop is at Rainbow Springs Park where you will see pools of brown and rainbow trout and native birds including the Kiwi.
Last activity is the spectacular Skyline Gondola, offering superb views over city, lake and mountains. and for a little excitement, try a Luge ride with our compliments. The Luge is a fun filled ride on a three-wheel cart with a unique braking and steering system providing the rider full control and allowing them to travel as fast or as slow as they wish.
This evening you are in for a cultural treat. Watch in awe as two warriors perform a formal Powhiri (welcome), be thrilled by the Haka (war dance), and see the talented Poi dances. You will even be given the opportunity to try to perform the Haka or the Poi dance. The concert is complemented by mouth-watering buffet selections of Eastern and Western cuisine and divine desserts, including the very 'Kiwi' Pavlova. |
Day
13 |
Rotorua – Waitomo – Auckland
Cross the Mamaku Ranges to the Waikato region, noted for dairy farming and world famous horse studs. At Waitomo a guide will escort your group underground to the limestone caverns and glow-worm grotto. During your guided tour you'll take in the spectacular Glow-worm Cave with its majestic and ornate cave decorations, the deep limestone shaft known as the Tomo and the equally magnificent Cathedral Cavern.
On through Hamilton to Ngaruawahia, centre for the region's Maori people, then travel alongside the Waikato River and cross the Bombay Hills to reach New Zealand's largest city - Auckland "the City of Sails". A city tour will give a feel for the city. Visit the summit of the Skytower, at 328m the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, for superb city and harbour views, the down town area, Waterfront Drive and The Domain. Stay: Rydges Hotel |
Day
14 |
Depart Auckland
Cross Auckland's Harbour Bridge for the drive north along the scenic Hibiscus Coast with its numerous beach front holiday settlements, and on to Matakohe for a visit to its museum that houses an exceptional display highlighting the region's early settlement and kauri gum industry, which was so important to the region's early development.
Continue north through Kawakawa to Paihia, where we meet our local Maori Guide, a descendant of the original settlers to the region, who will provide a comprehensive insight and history of the Bay of Islands before a visit to New Zealand's birthplace, Waitangi. A self guided tour through the famous treaty house, the Maori Meeting House and giant war canoe all set in spectacular grounds overlooking the bay. Stay: Tanoa Hotel, Paihia (2 nights) |
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from NZ $3,550
14 Day Classic Scenic Explorer
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14 Day Classic Scenic Explorer Reviews
Tour reviews from past clients of Relaxing Journeys for the 14 Day Classic Scenic Explorer. |
Loved the tour and NZ, the hotels and food were excellent. Didn't like having to get up every day at 6.30am and sometimes not getting to the hotel till 6.30pm, didnt always have time to shower and change before dinner. Our driver guide was called Hugh Robinson he was very friendly and caring, but he never stopped talking, sometimes I left the coach with a headache, he told us a great deal of information, but waffled on to much.
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Value For Money
Accommodaton
Tour Pace
Our Service
Celia & Peter Fulton (United Kingdom)
Tour Date 07/01/2012 |
My family really had a ball in New Zealand. They were very much impressed by the service. Thanks a lot for all the help throughout a wonderful wonderful experience. We will surely be recommending Relaxing Journeys.
[More+]
Value For Money
Accommodaton
Tour Pace
Our Service
Imran Chhavniwala (Australia)
Tour Date 06/01/2012 |
We're back and are happy to say that our Tour of your beautiful country was fantastic. Kirra Tours are nothing but professional and we thoroughly enjoyed the beauty of the country, the very friendly people and the company of our fellow travelers. The coach captains on both the North and South Islands were exceptional, especially Reece Winter on the South Island. It is indeed seldom that one cannot single out something that might not have been just right or perhaps a bit annoying in any vacation but we have only good words to say about our New Zealand experience. The hotels were fine, the meals were excellent and the attractions were enjoyed by all. The coach captains went the extra mile to explain the country and its people, were always available to answer questions and did their utmost to ensure a comfortable journey for all. We won't hesitate to recommend Relaxing Journeys and Kirra Tours to all who are interested. A visit to Australia wasn't possible this time but it is certainly on our 'bucket list' for the future. Thanks very much for your assistance to make this one of our best vacations. P.S Was it really necessary for the All Blacks to give our Canadian rugby team such a drubbing? Good on them for for winning it all.
Gordon & Heather Steeves (Canada)
Tour Date 23/09/2011 |
We had a really nice time during this trip. John, our tour driver/guide is very knowledgeable and experienced. We got to know more about the places we visited as well as NZ as a country. Also met many nice friends during the tour. All in all, it was an enjoyable experience and would consider going again the future.
Mei Ling Wong (Malaysia)
Tour Date 16/09/2011 |
This was the first time I had ventured on a Guided Tour,so was not sure what was in store for me. But to my surprise it was a wonderful experience. Our 'Coach Captain' Gordon, made every aspect of the tour enjoyable and exciting, with his knowledge of the area, he was very informative and helpful. The itinerary was brilliant. I got more from this tour than I expected. If I ever do another Guided Tour they will have a lot to live up to. Thank you, it was a wonderful experience for me and my friend Wendy Fisher. By the way I forgot to mention Yvonne our 'Coach Captain' on the North Island, she was just as amazing as Gordon. So once again thank you.
Robin Thatcher & Wendy Fisher (Australia)
Tour Date 12/04/2010 |
I just wanted to drop thank Relaxing Journeys from the bottom of my heart for a trip well-planned and that made the tour of both islands for us very smooth, very enjoyable and extremely memorable. Our 12-day trip on Kirra Tours was fantastic, we've never met a more dedicated and professional team from the day we arrived to the day we left New Zealand. This was the first trip for parents and me to New Zealand. It has inspired me to think of longer stays and fewer stops in the country to appreciate the country deeply and I would not hesitate to contact Relaxing Journeys again. Finally, you have a beautiful country and very lovely people. Thank you for the adventure and memories!
Jennifer Ng (Singapore)
Tour Date 14/12/2009 |
Tour Prices
All tour prices are per person, twin share. |
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EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*
2012 Season Hot Seat Deals! Unbeatable Savings Exclusive to Relaxing Journeys!
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 |
| 03 Feb 2012 |
16 Feb 2012 |
G |
NZ $3944 |
Save $160 |
NZ $3784 |
| 12 Feb 2012 |
25 Feb 2012 |
G |
NZ $3944 |
Save $160 |
NZ $3784 |
| 19 Feb 2012 |
03 Mar 2012 |
|
NZ $3944 |
Save $160 |
NZ $3784 |
| 02 Mar 2012 |
15 Mar 2012 |
G |
NZ $3944 |
Save $160 |
NZ $3784 |
| 18 Mar 2012 |
31 Mar 2012 |
|
NZ $3944 |
Save $160 |
NZ $3784 |
| 08 Apr 2012 |
21 Apr 2012 |
G |
NZ $3944 |
Save $160 |
NZ $3784 |
| 06 May 2012 |
19 May 2012 |
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NZ $3700 |
Save $150 |
NZ $3550 |
| 05 Aug 2012 |
18 Aug 2012 |
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NZ $3700 |
Save $150 |
NZ $3550 |
| 16 Sep 2012 |
29 Oct 2012 |
G |
NZ $3700 |
Save $150 |
NZ $3550 |
| 30 Sep 2012 |
13 Oct 2012 |
|
NZ $3700 |
Save $150 |
NZ $3550 |
Note: Tour Status: 'G' Tours are guaranteed to depart. The majority of departures above will proceed. We will confirm the status of your preferred departure date in your quote along with all applicable discounts and specials.
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Tour Options & Single Supplement:
Optional extras & single traveller supplement. |
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| Single Room Supplement: |
Add |
NZ $1,015 |
*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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