New Zealand Highlights [NZ33]

13 Days / 11 Nights

Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, & Queenstown

Auckland's blend of landscape, Polynesian culture, glistening harbours and modern city environment creates an unbelievable lifestyle ranked amongst the best in the world. Not only is Auckland close to the beaches but it is also close to over twelve different Islands. There are 48 volcanic cones and more than 50 islands in the Auckland region. It is the largest city in New Zealand claiming one third of the entire population of the country.

Rotorua an exciting city with a vast history, tradition and culture. It is surrounded by volcanoes, lakes, parks and is a great place to go hiking or to view native birds and animals. The surrounding areas are a geothermal wonderland, with geysers, boiling mud pools, and steaming craters. Rotorua is also a showcase of Maori cultural activities and a place of exceptional natural beauty.

Christchurch is just like the rest of New Zealand a city of contrasts. It is a place where its residents continue to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle amidst a natural environment world-renowned for its beauty. A growing cosmopolitan ambience also adds a touch of excitement without overt flashiness. Everywhere there is an understated elegance that speaks of times gone by and promises a future where anything is possible.

Queenstown is known as the Adventure Capital of the World. A reputation earned through the actions of a number of locally residing thrill seekers who have developed several unbelievable, adrenalin stirring, sanity-reducing adventures in a wildly exciting environment. Queenstown has, over the years, quietly expanded into all sorts of attractions, including new wineries, art galleries, arts trails and challenging golf courses.

Travel Package Features

• Accommodation - Auckland (2 Nights), Rotorua (2 Nights), Wellington (2 Nights), Christchurch (2 Nights), Queenstown (3 Nights)
• International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland, Auckland to Los Angeles
• New Zealand Domestic Flights - Rotorua to Wellington, Christchurch to Queenstown, Queenstown to Auckland
• Day Tours - Auckland: Harbour Cruise, Deluxe Coach to Rotorua; Wellington: Interislander Ship to Picton, Picton: Tranzcoastal Train to Christchurch; Christchurch: Alpine Safari; Queenstown: Gondola Ride, Doubtful Sound
• Shuttle Transfers - Airport to Auckland Accommodation (return), Rotorua Accommodation to Airport, Queenstown Airport to Accommodation (return), Wellington Airport to Accommodation
• All Other Day Tours are Optional and Not Included
• F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
• All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
• Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.

Travel Package Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - International Flight - Los Angeles to Auckland

Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Auckland.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!

Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).

Day 2 - Shuttle Transfer from Airport to Auckland Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.

Days 2 to 3 - 1 Night Accommodation in Auckland

Travel to your accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Auckland is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world– renowned as that 'City Of Sails.' Dramatic landscapes and seascapes provide a diverse playground in which a compelling range of attractions are available. Visitors come to enjoy an array of exciting entertainment, leisure, culture and dining possibilities in New Zealand's largest city.

Day 2 - Day Tour - Auckland Harbour Cruise

Visit a true thing of beauty and cruise the sparkling waters of Waitemata Harbour!

<a href="//youtu.be/xXhkr6_MzNc" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Auckland-Harbour-Cruise-New-Zealand.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

Head out on this one and a half hour tour to see the Devonport Naval Base, travel past the township and North Head, then cruise towards the iconic Rangitoto Island as you pass the historic Bean Rock lighthouse. You'll pass under the Harbour Bridge twice and then off to Westhaven Marina to catch a glance at the viaduct harbour bustling with super yachts! This cruise also gives you a chance to "hop-on, hop-off" and discover nearby islands at your leisure.

Daily at 10.30am & 1.30pm. Tours do not operate on Christmas day.

Day 3 - Deluxe Coach to Rotorua

Experience New Zealand's rich cultural heritage and the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, plus a trip through the famous glowworm caves at Waitomo, on this full day sightseeing tour by deluxe luxury coach.

Depart Auckland: Travel the main Southern Highway through small rural townships steeped in early pioneer history. Your host serves morning tea during this sector.

<B>Waikato:</B> Travel through New Zealand's largest dairy and sheep farming province. See the small farming settlements on the outskirts of Hamilton City, as you travel towards King Country, birthplace of the Maori Monarchy.

<B>Waitomo Glow Worm Caves:</B> Join a guided tour through this world-famous cave formation, climaxed by drifting silently in a boat through a glow worm cavern lit up with thousands of tiny glow worm lights.

<B>Light Lunch:</B> Served on-board as we make our way to Rotorua through magnificent rural farmland with its vast numbers of grazing animals.

<B>Rotorua: </B>New Zealand's highest city, 305 meters (1000 feet) above sea level, located inside the rim of a volcanic crater. An area of great geothermal activity where you will visit the following attractions:

<B>Agrodome Farm Tour:</B> An introduction to New Zealand farming, with a 45-minute tour of an authentic working farm in all-weather, all-terrain vehicles. Watch a sheep being shorn and hand-feed the animals.

<B>Lake Rotorua:</B> Drive through the foreshore park past the hundreds of ducks and swans. Then travel through the beautiful historic Government Gardens.

<B>Te Puia Institute (Maori Arts, Crafts & Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve):</B> One of Rotorua's most famous attractions. See woodcarving, weaving displays, Maori village and the thermal valley with the famous Pohutu Geyser, fumaroles, colourful silica deposits and boiling mud pools.

This tour ends in Rotorua.

Days 3 to 5 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Rotorua

Travel to your accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua your accommodation is only a short walk to the city centre, convention centre, cafes and restaurants. Here in the heartland of New Zealand's Maori culture you'll experience an enveloping warmth, proud spirit, deep sense of history and a quick humour. Picturesque cobbled and lantern lined streetways and striking Tudor architecture celebrates New Zealand's significant colonial history. Travel the region by mountain bike or participate in local bush walks.

Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room

Optional Evening Event (Not Included): Te Po, Indigenous Evening Experience

Te Po is an authentic, one-of-a-kind evening event. It is a feast of storytelling, entertainment and Maori cuisine like no other you'll ever experience.



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The Te Po  Indigenous Experience begins with a mouth-watering buffet at the world famous Pataka Kai Restaurant, Bar and Cafe. With locally sourced cuisine and an authentic Maori twist in each dish, it is guaranteed to be a favorite with your group.

Following this, you will be led to view an exhilarating cultural performance which takes place in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It will include a Pohiri (Traditional Maori Welcome), Waiata (Song), Moteatea (traditional chant), Poi and Haka.

Afterwards, enter the geothermal valley on a waka (people moving vehicle) and discover one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands – featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud, and beautiful native bush. For generations Te Puia has welcomed manuhiri (visitors) from all over the world to explore the magic hidden within Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley. During this experience, you will be viewing the valley afterhours and resting with a hot chocolate upon naturally heated rock seating beneath the powerful Pohutu Geyser.

<b>Operates:</b>
Daily 5:30pm-8:30pm

<b>Includes:</b>
- Return transfers from your Rotorua CBD accommodation
- Buffet dinner
- Maori cultural performance
- Hot chocolate
- Guided tour of the geothermal valley

<b>Need to know:</b>
Please advise of dietary requirements.

Day 5 - Shuttle Transfer Rotorua Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, to Napier.

Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.

Day 5 - New Zealand Domestic Flight - Rotorua to Wellington

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Rotorua to Wellington (North Island).

Day 5 - Shuttle Transfer from Airport to Wellington Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Wellington, New Zealand.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.

Days 5 to 7 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Wellington

Travel to your accommodation in Wellington, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.


Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is located conveniently in the heart of Wellington, New Zealand. It is a short walk from Westpac Stadium, Te Papa Museum and the waterfront. Your vacation hotel has a direct elevator to Lambton Quay via a shopping arcade. Travel to New Zealand's top wine regions, Wairarapa and Marlborough, which are only a short drive away. Or participate in adventure activities such as mountain biking, sailing, bushwalking and much more.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

Day 6 - Free Day

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Day 7 - Travel via ship to Picton

The 92 km journey across Cook Strait between Wellington (North Island) and Picton (South Island) takes only 3 hours and has been described as "one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world".

Make your way from Wellington to Picton aboard one of 3 amazing ferries and take in the spectacular views along the way. See the South Island's Kaikoura ranges and have the opportunity to spot dolphins and sea birds.

<b>Operates</b>
Daily
Departs multiple times beginning at 2:00am.

<b>Includes</b>
- Tranport from the North Island to the South Island
- Beautiful views
- Complimentary internet, newspapers, magazines, beer, wine, tea, coffee, & snacks

<b>Need to Know</b>
Food court, bar, Movie Theatre, and shops are at your own expense.

Day 7 - Travel via train to Christchurch

The Coastal Pacific train journey travels between the delightful port of Picton and Christchurch.

<a href="//youtu.be/M43DqaMH2J0" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Coastal-Pacific-Picton-Christchurch-New-Zealand.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

This 5.5 hour scenic feast is one of the world's most scenic train journeys. The Coastal Pacific travels through 22 tunnels and crosses 175 bridges, one of them being New Zealand's only road-rail bridge.

This journey is a scenic feast of New Zealand, with the Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side of your train and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline on the other. Travel through some of New Zealand's finest horticultural and farmland areas, and see amazing wildlife such as dolphins, seals and penguins from the comfort of your train carriage.

<b>Operates</b>
February to end of April - Daily
May to late September - Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Late September to Mid December - Thursday through Sunday
There are seasonal block out dates, please check with your Destination Specialist
Connects with the Interislander 9:00am from Wellington
Connects with the 2:15pm Interislander from Picton

<b>Includes</b>
- Train from Picton to Christchurch
- Spectacular views

<b>Need to Know</b>
If a seat is required for an infant, a separate seat at the child rate must be purchased. Cafe is at own expense.

Photo Credit: KiwiRail Limited

Days 7 to 9 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Christchurch

Travel to your accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 4 Star vacation accommodation in Christchurch, located on New Zealand's South Island, offers a stylish boutique hotel, just metres from Cathedral Square, major business houses, convention facilities and prime attractions. The city, also known as the "Garden City" offers many opportunities to either rest from your travel or explore the city. Consider traveling to Arthur's Pass National Park, which has an incredible diversity of flora and landscape. Experience a breathtaking journey aboard the TranzAlpine Train winding its way through New Zealand's magnificent Waimakariri Gorge.

Day 8 - Day Tour - Alpine Safari

See the spectacular mountain vistas of Arthur's Pass National Park and immerse yourself in New Zealand's high country scenery on this journey through the South Island. You'll discover breathtaking mountain landscapes and alpine forests on personal, up close encounters most people never get to witness.

Your day begins with a hotel pick up that takes you to the train station for boarding on the famous TranzAlpine train, rated one of the top six train journeys in the world. This scenic rail experience takes you westward across the rich agricultural belt of the Canterbury Plains, river canyons, tunnels and viaducts to the grand mountains of the Southern Alps and Arthur's Pass.

At Arthur's Pass village you will meet your guide, a friendly and professional tour leader who will give you profound insight into each stop of the day. You will have the opportunity to:

- View the pristine Waimakariri River and its unique braided river system
- Explore the alpine forest, crystal rivers and mountain vistas on short walks through Arthur's Pass National Park
- Enjoy lunch at a historic high country hotel
- Follow the old stage coach route and view the spectacular Otira Gorge, a testament to the road builders of the 1860’s and the route taken by the Maori in their quest for greenstone
- Visit Cave Stream, where underground limestone cliffs, gorges and craggy outcrops await to be discovered. This area was also used for the filming of C.S. Lewis’s – “The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe”
- Visit the incredible Castle Hill rocks, unique rock formations and sacred landmarks to the Maori

Your journey ends with a deluxe mini van trip back to Christchurch, traveling via sub-alpine Porter's Pass and the Canterbury Plains.

Day 9 - Shuttle Transfer from Christchurch Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand, to the Airport.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.

Day 9 - New Zealand Domestic Flight - Christchurch to Queenstown

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Christchurch to Queenstown (South Island).

Day 9 - Shuttle Transfer from Airport to Queenstown Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.

Days 9 to 12 - 3 Nights Accommodation in Queenstown

Spend 3 nights in beautiful Queenstown surrounded by rugged mountains, majestic lakes, crystal clear air, and just so much to do.

From the sweeping entrance with its enormous stone fireplace, to the contemporary artworks on every floor, Your accommodation epitomises style and glamour in a wonderfully understated way. Nestled on a hillside overlooking Lake and Mountains, the alpine lodge-style design truly embraces its alpine setting and is superbly located in central Queenstown only minute's walk from the resort's renowned dining and shopping precinct.

Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room

Day 9 - Day Tour - Gondola Ride

One of the first sights to captivate visitors to Queenstown is the distinctive outline of the Skyline complex high above town.


<a href="//youtu.be/1iQPRGL4SfM" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Skyline-Gondola-Queenstown.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

Located an easy 5 minute walk from central Queenstown and exclusively accessed by scenic gondola, Skyline Gondola, Restaurant & Luge is a must-see attraction during your visit to Queenstown. The best views in the region are found here, spread out in a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkable mountain range and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peaks. It's truly magnificent and awe-inspiring!

Of course there's more to do than just admire the view! For an additional cost you can:
<ul><li>Enjoy a dinner or relax in the bar in the Skyline Stratosfare Restaurant. Casual dining is also available during the day in the Cafe. </li>
<li>Thrill seekers can hurtle down the winding downhill Skyline Luge. Purpose built Luge carts put you in complete control as you take on a half-mile of banked corners, tunnels and dippers. Once you’ve conquered the course, hop on the chairlift and do it all again, and again, and again! Gentle and leisurely or steep and adventurous, you'll be hooked.</li>
<li>Explore the southern night sky of Queenstown with a guided tour of the galaxy and learn about the stars, nebulae and planets that make up our solar system and beyond. </li></ul>

Ask your Destination Specialist about available combo packages to make your day at Skyline more enjoyable.

Various walking tracks can also be accessed from Skyline, from an easy 30 minute walk to a full day hike.

<b>Operates</b>
Daily. Stratosfare Restaurant closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Gondola rides operate from 9:30am to 8:30pm Monday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday. Gondola rides operate from 9:30am to 6:30pm Tuesday & Wednesday. Saturday operation hours are 8:50am to 8:30pm.

<b>Includes</b>
- Gondola ride

<b>Need to Know</b>
Gondola ride is approximately 7-10 minutes one way.

<b>Upgrades</b>
- Add a thrilling luge ride to your Gondola experience.
- Add the Taste of New Zealand buffet at Stratosfare Restaurant
- Stargazing evening event

Day 10 - Day Tour - Doubtful Sound

When you discover Doubtful Sound you will be struck by its silence, a silence broken only by birdsong, or maybe the rushing of a distant waterfall.

Your Doubtful Sound adventure begins as you cruise the crystal clear waters of Lake Manapouri. Then its over Wilmot Pass, stopping along the way to experience some of Fiordland's densest rainforest and to view the colourful alpine moss gardens.

On reaching Deep Cove, you will board our spacious catamaran for a three hour cruise that takes in the most dramatic scenery of Doubtful Sound. Our skippers provide a detailed commentary and point out highlights. Keep a look out for wildlife as bottlenose dolphins frequently come alongside our vessel, fur seals bask on the rocks around the fiord and rare penguins can at times be observed. Full Day Tour.

*A picnic lunch can be pre-ordered before your tour for an additional cost. There is also a selection of cafe food aboard the vessel for purchase.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Shotover Jet

Welcome to Shotover Jet Country, Queenstown New Zealand.

<a href="//youtu.be/7QZAeCv5LZw" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Shotover-Jet-Queenstown-New-Zealand.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

Get ready to experience the World's most exciting Jet Boat ride! Acknowledged as the globe's most famous Jet Boat operation! Being the only company permitted to operate in the breathtaking Shotover river canyons, you won't get this experience anywhere else. There are many like Shotover Jet, but for sheer excitement, no one comes close.

It's a thrilling ride - skimming past rocky outcrops at close range, as you twist and turn through the narrow canyons at breath taking speeds. And a major highlight - hold tight for the Jets gripping 360º spins!

No visit to Queenstown is complete without "Catching the Canyons" with this spectacular and unique Jet Boat ride! Shotover Jet operates every day of the year (weather and river conditions permitting).

<b>Operates</b>
Daily. Does not operate on Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.
Departs every hour from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Complimentary return shuttles from Queenstown for 11:00am and 3:00pm jet boat departures. Each jet boat ride is approximately 25 minutes.

<b>Includes</b>
- Highly experienced professional driver and guide 
- Thrilling ride on a modern, well maintained twin engine jet boat
- Life jackets (mandatory)
- Transport from central Queenstown location
- Photography and video services. Photos and video highlights available for no obligation viewing

<b>Need to Know</b>
This experience is not suitable for pregnant women, those with specific medical conditions, including people who suffer from back or neck injuries. Children must be at least 3 years old to join tour. Warm layers of clothing are recommended, including waterproof jacket, sturdy footwear and sunglasses. A small bag can be carried with you for the entire duration of the tour, should you require any extra items.

Day 12 - Shuttle Transfer from Queenstown Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, to the Airport.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.

Day 12 - New Zealand Domestic Flight - Queenstown to Auckland

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Queenstown to Auckland (North Island).

Day 12 - Shuttle Transfer from Auckland Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.

Day 12 to 13 - 1 Night Accommodation in Auckland

Travel to your accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Auckland is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world– renowned as that 'City Of Sails.' Dramatic landscapes and seascapes provide a diverse playground in which a compelling range of attractions are available. Visitors come to enjoy an array of exciting entertainment, leisure, culture and dining possibilities in New Zealand's largest city.

Day 13 - Shuttle Transfer from Auckland Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, to the Airport.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.

Day 13 - International Flight - Auckland to Los Angeles

Today depart Auckland and fly to the USA. Enjoy an in-flight dinner and movie with arrival in the USA. Note: you will be traveling back across the International Date Line. Gain that day back you lost on the way over, you actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Auckland.

Note: Flight may include a stop over in Australia.