Tour Type: Low Cost Escorted Tour
Duration: 23 Days
Tour Starts In: Auckland
Tour Finishes In: Christchurch
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from NZ $6328 pp
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23 Day All New Zealand Ultimate Touring Route:
Tour Description:
The Ultimate New Zealand holiday! See all the wonders of the North and South Islands as you travel by luxury coach around New Zealand. From stunning scenery, fantastic geothermal attractions and alluring Maori culture, there is something for everyone on this tour. Travel off the beaten track to locations not normally visited on a regular coach touring holiday as well as the 'must see' destinations throughout New Zealand.
Sail a yacht on Auckland Harbour, spend a day with Kiwi Dundee on the Coromandel, visit the Abel Tasman National Park, overnight on Milford Sound and see the sub-tropical Bay of Islands. For the more intrepid traveller we have the 3 day Hollyford Track Guided Walk option available in lieu of the 3 night stay in Queenstown. During the course of our All New Zealand Ultimate tour you will have free time in Paihia, Wellington, Nelson, Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown and Dunedin so you can relax or choose one of the many diverse optional excursions available such as a day walk in the Abel Tasman National Park.
Tour Highlights:
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Day
1 |
Arrive Auckland
Welcome to New Zealand and Auckland, New Zealand's City of Sails. You will be met with a smile and transferred to your hotel by a tour representative. As you travel into the city center you will spot Skytower, Auckland's iconic landmark. Your accommodation this evening is less than half a block from this landmark. Stay: Rydges Hotel |
Day
2 |
Auckland – Bay of Islands
Cross Auckland's Harbour Bridge and drive north along the Hibiscus Coast skimming past the many seaside villages on the Whangaporoa Peninsula. Travel to Matakohe for a visit to the Kauri 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 in the Bay of Islands. On arrival into Paihia we meet our local Maori guide, 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 bountiful Bay of Islands.. Stay: Tanoa Hotel, Paihia (2 nights) |
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Bay of Islands Overnight Cruise Option
Upgrade a night to the new Ipipiri Overnight Cruise. This two day cruise will showcase the past and present of New Zealand's finest sub tropical and maritime destination.
When selecting the Bay of Islands Overnight Cruise your tour itinerary will change slightly and you will not have a full free day in the Bay of Islands. Additional cost $NZ 155 per person. |
Day
3 |
Bay of Islands
A day free for you to relax and enjoy the many optional activities available. Your coach captain will happily assist with all details. We highly recommend a full day tour to Cape Reinga, New Zealand's northern most point. At Cape Reinga you view the blending of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and an understanding of the Maori myths and legends of the area, go sand boarding down the giant sand dunes and travel along Ninety Mile Beach the highway of the north. |
Day
4 |
Bay of Islands – Auckland
A launch cruise will take you across the Bay and world acclaimed fishing grounds to Cape Brett and the famous “Hole in the Rock”. Returning to Paihia, board your Coach for the journey south through Whangarei and Warkworth passing the satellite tracking station. Shortly Auckland city and Harbour come into view. Stay: Rydges Hotel |
Day
5 |
Auckland – Whangamata
A tour of Auckland, to the summit of Skytower, at 328 metres the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, the downtown city area and waterfront drive, then experience the thrill of sailing aboard a 15m yacht on Auckland Harbour and visiting the Maritime Museum, all before driving to the Coromandel Peninsula. Stay: Breakers Motel (2 nights) |
Day
6 |
Coromandel Peninsula
A day of fun and entertainment with Kiwi Dundee Adventures. Explore regenerating Kauri forest and lush fern groves, the old roads to Puketui an 1890’s gold mining town and visit a gold mine studded with glow-worms. Walk on isolated beaches and if conditions permit, a dip in the springs at Hotwater Beach. |
Day
7 |
Whangamata – Rotorua
On to Rotorua and the Agrodome to see New Zealand’s various sheep breeds and a shearing demonstration. Stroll through Rainbow Springs Park to see Rainbow and Brown Trout plus native birds and animals including the Kiwi. Take the spectacular Skyline Skyride for superb views over the city, lake and mountains and try a Luge ride with our compliments. Stroll through Rainbow Springs Park to see Rainbow and Brown Trout plus native birds and animals including the Kiwi. Visit Te Puia, the Maori Arts and Crafts Centre and Thermal Reserve with its boiling mud, silica terraces and Pohutu Geyser. This evening enjoy a Maori Hangi (meal), a selection of traditionally prepared meats and vegetables plus more conventional dishes, all followed by a concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirring haka (entire group). Stay: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua |
Day
8 |
Rotorua – Turangi
We head south to the Wairakei Geothermal
Valley, visiting the powerful Huka Falls before
arriving at Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest
lake. Stay: Bridge Lodge |
Day
9 |
Turangi – Wellington
As you travel south the volcanic mountains– Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe dominate
the view. Stop for lunch at Pukaha, Mt Bruce for a chance to get up close with some of New
Zealand’s endangered species. Continuing south
you head over the Rimutaka’s before reaching
the capital city Wellington. Stay: Bay Plaza Hotel |
Day
10 |
Wellington – Blenheim – Nelson
Join the Interislander Ferry for the scenic cruise to Picton, enjoy spectacular views of Wellington and the sheltered waters of Queen Charlotte Sound, then on to Montana Winery for a tasting and winery tour. From this renowned wine region it’s a fascinating drive to Nelson noted for its arts and crafts. Stay: Leisure Lodge (2 nights) |
Day
11 |
Nelson or Abel Tasman National Park
Today is at your leisure, take the time to explore
the shops and art galleries which make Nelson
famous. If you would like to explore a little
more your Coach Captain will happily assist
with arranging activities for you. We recommend an optional day tour to the Abel Tasman National Park. |
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Abel Tasman Day Trip Option
The Abel Tasman National Park is an
amazing part of New Zealand. With an
abundance of wildlife and pristine waters
you can choose from many walking options.
You board a launch that takes you along
the coastline, passing icons such as split
apple rock and a possible local seal or two. Additional cost $NZ 140 per person |
Day
12 |
Nelson – Greymouth
Lush farmlands then forest covered ranges to the rugged Buller Gorge – a spectacular scenic drive. Visit Westport and the coast near Cape Foulwind, possibly lunch at the award winning Beach House Cafe and south to explore the Pancake rocks at Punakaiki. At Greymouth visit Jade Boulder Gallery to see native jade, mined in remote alpine valleys crafted into fine jewellery. Stay: Hotel Ashley |
Day
13 |
Greymouth – Franz Josef Glacier
Hugging the coastline of the West Coast, as
you come closer your view will be dominated by
the towering Southern Alps, highlighting your
journey to Franz Josef. Stay: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef |
Day
14 |
Franz Josef – Wanaka
Follow the rugged coastline then inland across the Alps and the Haast Pass to the impressive bushlands of the Aspiring National Park. At Wanaka a choice of two afternoon activities, a launch cruise across the lake to Stevensons Island for a bush walk followed by refreshments. Alternatively a picturesque walk along a track beside the Clutha River as it flows from Lake Wanaka to a picnic spot. Enjoy light refreshments and a thrilling jet boat excursion on the river tailored to suit - full on exciting, leisurely scenic cruising or somewhere in between. Stay: Grand Mercure Oakridge Resort |
Day
15 |
Wanaka – Queenstown
Drive through a picturesque region that has a fascinating history of early settlement and goldmining for a late morning arrival into the ever-popular resort of Queenstown. Dinner tonight is at the spectacular Skyline Restaurant (entire group). Stay: Rydges Hotel (3 nights) |
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3 Day Hollyford Track Walk Option
This 3 day/2 night walk is a spectacular
journey, which takes in diverse scenery
from dense forest to untouched beaches.
The highlights are the walking back in time
through beech forests, crossing Fiordlands
longest swing bridge, jet boating along the
Hollyford River before finishing with a scenic
flight into Milford Sound to rejoin your group
on Day 18.
Additional cost $NZ 1,580 per person, twin share. Read More> |
Day
16
to
17 |
Queenstown At Leisure
The next two days are at your leisure whilst in
the adventure capital. You can either sit back,
relax or your Coach Captain is available to assist
with any optional activities you would like to do.
(B/D) (Dinner on Day 16 is not included allowing
the opportunity to dine at a restaurant of your
choice.) |
Day
18 |
Queenstown – Milford Sound
Follow the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Kingston, then cross fertile farmlands to Fiordland. Visit moody Lake Manapouri with its rugged bush clad mountains before continuing to Te Anau. Follow the Eglinton Valley, past native forests, lakes, waterfalls and towering mountains. Continue through The Divide and travel into the Hollyford Valley and through the Homer Tunnel to reach magnificent Milford Sound.
Enjoy an overnight cruise on Milford Sound on the Milford Mariner, a purpose built vessel. A large open deck area and observation lounge provide for unequal views of the Sound. When the day visitors have departed a silence descends on the fiord. Cruise to the mouth of the Tasman Sea before anchoring for the night in sheltered Harrison Cove. Here you have the opportunity to go kayaking and explore the shoreline on the tender craft with a nature guide. As evening falls, enjoy a lavish carvery buffet on the dining saloon. Stay: Milford Mariner
Note: Due to limited space in the cabins we suggest you leave your suitcase on the coach and only take an overnight bag with you. Included in your overnight bag should be an extra set of clothes in case you get wet while kayaking, or from the waterfalls' mist.
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Day
19 |
Milford Sound – Dunedin
Wake to the sounds of silence in a pristine world
with a glimpse every so often of a passing seal
or penguin. You return to shore to follow the
rugged and remote mountains as they change to
lush green countryside as you approach Dunedin,
the ‘Edinburgh of the South.’ Tonight prior
to dinner you will be treated to a traditional
Scottish Haggis Ceremony. Stay: Cargills Hotel (2 nights) |
Day
20 |
Dunedin
A day to enjoy at your leisure with a multitude of optional activities available. A Monarch Wildlife Cruise, Natures Wonders Tour (both featuring penguins, seals and birdlife), the Taieri Gorge Railway, a Citibus Newtons Tour, fascinating Larnach Castle or Tour the Cadbury Factory or Speights Brewery. Have fun! |
Day
21 |
Dunedin – Mt Cook
This morning visit Olveston House, Dunedin’s
majestic historic home. Travel north stopping to
view the unusual Moeraki Boulders then explore
Oamaru. Follow the Waitaki Valley, passing the
hydro lakes until you reach Mt Cook National
Park and village, amidst New Zealand’s highest
mountains. This afternoon visit the Tasman
Glacier where you will be amazed by the floating
icebergs in the nearby lake. Stay: Hermitage Hotel |
Day
22 |
Mt Cook – Christchurch
Visiting Lake Tekapo, view the Church of the Good
Shepherd and Collie Dog memorial. Continue
onto Burkes Pass to the Canterbury Plains and
Christchurch for a city and surrounds tour. Stay: Pavilions Hotel |
Day
23 |
Depart Christchurch
Today is goodbye to all your new found friends before you make your homeward journey. You will be transferred to Christchurch International Airport to join your flight home. |
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Click on the icon to download the 23 Day All New Zealand Ultimate tour in pdf format. |
from NZ $6,328
23 Day All New Zealand Ultimate
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23 Day All New Zealand Ultimate Reviews
Tour reviews from past clients of Relaxing Journeys for the 23 Day All New Zealand Ultimate. |
This was my first coach tour experience, so it was a little bit of a shock to my system - but it was great fun, and a great bunch of people. The early starts were a bit demanding at times! The first coach was outstanding, very comfortable and with an excellent driver, who was knowledgeable, friendly and tremendous fun. The second coach was very good, but sounded like it was in need of a little TLC!! The driver was also very good, but mumbled a bit a times; he did have a great sense of humour, though! The tour was altogether very good, and was a wonderful introduction to New Zealand; highlights have to be Cape Reinga, the Coromandel Peninsula, Rotorua, and Milford Sound. That is missing out many other great moments, and the optional flight in a float-plane at Taupo was a life-long ambition realised. We were very fortunate to have extremely good weather for both the crossing between the Islands and Milford Sound, but lost out in seeing Mount Cook, and in seeing the Fox Glacier by helicopter. I hope I can go back some day and fill in some of the places I didn't get a chance to see, and spend more time in some of those I saw but briefly. Many thanks to you and the team for providing me with such outstanding memories of a beautiful country.
Peter & Terry Balcon (United Kingdom)
Tour Date 07/03/2009 |
Hi This was the first holiday I had booked independently over the internet, and was somewhat apprehensive. I need not have been. From the moment we were met at the airport to being dropped back, everything was so well organised and we had the most fantastic holiday. So many highlights. You are very lucky to live in New Zealand. Thanks for your help in booking this holiday.
Marion Crowe & Paul Crowe (United Kingdom)
Tour Date 21/01/2009 |
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 |
25 Feb 2012 |
G |
NZ $6855 |
Save $275 |
NZ $6580 |
| 17 Feb 2012 |
10 Mar 2012 |
G |
NZ $6855 |
Save $275 |
NZ $6580 |
| 24 Feb 2012 |
17 Mar 2012 |
G |
NZ $6855 |
Save $527 |
NZ $6328 |
| 16 Mar 2012 |
07 Apr 2012 |
G |
NZ $6855 |
Save $527 |
NZ $6328 |
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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*Optional extra prices above are based on twin share.
*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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