11 Days: New Zealand Adventure [ST-3092]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Wellington (1 Night), Lermontov Lodge (4), Nelson (2), Queenstown (2)
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland (Return)
  • US Domestic Flights not included (as per your own arrangements) -
  • New Zealand Domestic Flights - Auckland to Wellington, Nelson to Queenstown (via Wellington), Queenstown to Auckland
  • Day Tours - Wellington: Scenic Ferry to Picton; Lermontov Lodge: 3 days of Diving the Lermontov Wreck
  • Shuttle Transfers - Wellington Airport to Accommodation, Wellington Accommodation to Ferry Terminal, Picton Ferry Terminal to Lermontov Lodge, Lermontov Lodge to Nelson Airport, Nelson Accommodation to Airport, Queenstown Airport to Accommodation (Return)
  • All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
  • Visa only required for some South Pacific countries; $15 visa fee per person where applicable.
  • 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.
Itinerary Details
(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) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Auckland to Wellington

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Auckland to the nation’s captital, Wellington.

(Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer, Wellington Airport to Accommodation

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

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.

(Days 2 to 3) - 1 Night Accommodation in Wellington

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

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 3) - Shuttle Transfer, Wellington Accommodation to Ferry Terminal

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Wellington to the Ferry Terminal.

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 3) - Scenic Ferry, Wellington 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.

Operates
Daily
Departs multiple times beginning at 2:00am.

Includes
– Tranport from the North Island to the South Island
– Beautiful views
– Complimentary internet, newspapers, magazines, beer, wine, tea, coffee, & snacks

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

(Day 3) - Shuttle Transfer from Picton Ferry Terminal to Lermontov Lodge

Travel by shuttle from Picton Ferry Terminal to your vacation accommodation at Lermontov Lodge.

(Days 3 to 7) - 4 Nights Accommodation at Lermontov Lodge

Travel to your accommodation at Lermontov Lodge on New Zealand’s South Island, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 nights.

Based at the very cosy and secluded Lermontov Lodge in Port Gore, only 5 minutes by boat to the Mikhail Lermontov, you will have unlimited access to this world class wreck dive, as well as the other historical wrecks and reefs in the Port Gore, Cape Jackson area. The Lodge is nearly 3 hours scenic drive from Picton, with the closest shop being in Picton. The Lermontov Lodge is a remote eco friendly facility. There is no cell phone coverage and only VHF contact. Your accommodation will provide home cooked meals for breakfast, lunch, & dinner

Additional Info:
Dietary requirements can be accommodated for at extra charge
You will need to purchase all your personal requirements prior to departure from Picton
Go Dive supplies, bath towel, pillow and slip, bottom sheet, top sheet and summer weight duvet. Throw rugs available for cooler nights

(Days 4 to 6) - 3 Days Lermontov Shipwreck & Reef Diving

Spend 4 Days in Port Gore for wreck diving. The ultimate way to dive one of the biggest and best wrecks in the world.

The Mikhail Lermontov sunk in Marlborough Sound on the Northern Tip of the South island of New Zealand in 1978. Named after a Russian poet this Russian cruise ship is one of the largest ships to sink since the Titanic & it occurred under mysterious circumstances. It is alleged that is may have been operating as a spy ship & to add support to this government reports as to how she sank have never been released so nobody really knows.
She lays in approx 108ft of water on the starboard side with an average dive depth of 75ft & represents an excellent penetration dive mostly due to the fact she is still fully intact and has not been salvaged.

Diving the Lermontov offers the following:

Accommodation is in bunk style rooms, all linen and bath towels supplied.
All meals are included with fresh seafood entrée’s, cooked breakfasts.
Beer, wine and snacks with evening meals.
Cylinders, twin 12 litre steels, or 12 litre steel singles, twins with 300bar valves singles with 200bar DIN/A-clamp valves
Sling cylinders and regs are available for those who want to penetrate parts of the wreck that require specialised kit (specific skills required).
Up to three guided dives per day
Nitrox 32% is available at NZ$10.00 per single or $18.00 per twin.
Closest shop is 2 hours away, Lodge is remote & in a beautiful part of NZ
No cell or internet connection
Lodge is powered by generator/invertor, but does have ample charging facilities
Visibility in November ranges from 20 to 60 ft on the outside of the wreck
Water temp is approx 60F during November

(Day 7) - Shuttle Transfer from Lermontov Lodge to Nelson

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation at Lermontov Lodge to Nelson.

(Days 7 to 9) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Nelson

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

Located just minutes away from the heart of Nelson, with views stretching across the Waimea Inlet to the mountains of Kahurangi National Park, this accommodation is the perfect retreat.

What’s more, once you arrive you won’t need to go far, as the resort provides all the comforts and conveniences you could hope for.

There’s plenty on offer, including award winning restaurant, health and beauty spa, pool, gym, purpose built conference facilities and even a craftsman jeweller and a hairdressing salon onsite.

This hotel can accommodate up to 280 guests, with 20 hotel rooms, 42 one-bedroom cottages and 38 two-bedroom cottages.

Photo Credit: Nelson Tasman Tourism

(Day 8) - Free Day to Explore Nelson

Spend a day to relax or explore the “lifestyle” of Nelson, New Zealand

Perhaps it’s the sun, perhaps it’s the location, but Nelson has long been a magnet for creative people. There are more than 350 working artists and craftspeople living in Nelson, traditional, contemporary and Maori. Visit their studios and find a unique piece to take home with you.

Walk the sun drenched sands of Golden Bay or head inland to Takaka and see the impossibly clear waters of New Zealand’s largest freshwater springs. Walk the Abel Tasman track – it’s a three to five day walk – or, for a different view, take a sea kayaking tour around the coast and see a seal colony and little blue penguins bobbing in the water.

Or just relax. Sit in the sun, sip a wine from one of the local vineyards, and dine on the famous Nelson Bay scallops.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Abel Tasman National Park Scenic Cruise

Sit back and relax as we depart from picturesque Kaiteriteri Beach on a scenic cruise into the majestic Abel Tasman National Park.




View world-famous Split Apple Rock, fur seals, golden sands and the crystal-clear waters of Torrent, Bark, Tonga, Awaroa and Totaranui Beaches before you return to Kaiteriteri. A great 3 to 4-hour cruise for all ages.





Upon the conclusion of your cruise, you will arrive back into Kaiteriteri where you can take in all this attractive beach town has to offer on your 4-hour self-guided exploration. You may choose to relax and take a leisurely walk on the beautiful golden sand beach as you gaze out onto the clear blue-green water. Grab some souvenirs and keepsakes from the quaint shops and enjoy a delicious lunch, own expense, at one of the restaurants or cafes specializing in fresh seafood.

This trip includes a 4-hour self-guided scenic tour of Kaiteriteri, return transfers from Nelson to Kaiteriteri and round-trip cruise from Kaiteriteri to Totaranui with no Walking!

(Day 9) - Shuttle Transfer, Nelson Accommodation to Airport

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

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 9) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Nelson to Queenstown

Travel by air today from Nelson to Queenstown, New Zealand.

(Day 9) - Shuttle Transfer, Queenstown Airport to Accommodation

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

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.

(Days 9 to 11) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Queenstown

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

It’s all about location! Your 4 star accommodations sits in a tranquil lakefront setting only a minute’s walk from the heart of Queenstown with shopping, restaurants, nightlife and activities all within easy reach. This fresh, modern hotel features rooms and facilities furnished with the finest comforts and conveniences. A place where you can relax with surperb uninterrupted views of the lake, mountains and adjoining gardens. Comfortable and serene you will surely enjoy your stay here!

Upgrades Available: Garden View Room, Lakeview Room

(Day 10) - Free Day to Explore Queenstown

Spend a day to relax or explore dynamic Queenstown.

This region is renowned for its incedible adventure activities and spectacular outdoor terrain. You could try skiing, snowboarding, bungy jumping, paragliding, jetboating, sky diving and more! Or, if you want something a little more relaxed, you can choose from numerous family activities, nature experiences, tours and beauty spas. One hundred and forty years after our establishment as a gold mining camp, central Queenstown has transformed into a sophisticated cosmopolitan town, tucked into a picturesque bay on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, beneath majestic mountains. There’s a permanent buzz in downtown Queenstown, where you’ll find a fantastic choice of restaurants, a lively bar scene and excellent shopping.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Skyline Gondola Ride

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

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:

  • Enjoy a dinner or relax in the bar in the Skyline Stratosfare Restaurant. Casual dining is also available during the day in the Cafe.
  • 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.
  • 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.

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.

Operates
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.

Includes
– Gondola ride

Need to Know
Gondola ride is approximately 7-10 minutes one way.

Upgrades
– Add a thrilling luge ride to your Gondola experience.
– Add the Taste of New Zealand buffet at Stratosfare Restaurant
– Stargazing evening event

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Doubtful Sound - Full Day

Doubtful Sound is a beautiful fiord; three times longer than Milford Sound and a surface area ten times larger with twisting arms. With its rugged peaks, verdant rainforest and twisting, hidden inlets, Doubtful Sound will take your breath away.

The only way you can to get to Doubtful Sound is to cruise across the picturesque Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus trip over Wilmot Pass – New Zealand’s most expensive (and majestic) road.
Pause along the way to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest and view Doubtful Sound glistening below. This isolation makes this fiord a very special place, only those in the know get to see.
Once you arrive, you will board the Patea Explorer for a 3-hour cruise on Doubtful Sound – a spectacular pristine fiord. During the cruise, your knowledgeable and friendly skipper or nature guide will share with you their passion for the region. They’re always ready to answer questions, point out landmarks and provide all the information about the varied wildlife you may see, including dolphins, fur seals, and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.
Following the cruise, return to your Queenstown hotel by luxury coach.

Operates:
Daily
Departs 6:55am, Returns 7:30pm (approx.)

Includes:
– Transport by coach to/from Queenstown accommodation
– Lake cruise
– Fjord cruise
– Wildlife viewing
– Insightful commentary by nature guide

Need to Know:
Wear waterproof/warm clothing and non-slip shoes. Please bring sunglasses, sunscreen and camera. Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility. Because of the length of the tour, please bring a packed lunch. Food and drink available for purchase onboard.

Photo Credit: Tourism Media

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Bungy jumping from Kawarau Bridge

If you’ve heard of Bungy, you’ve heard of the The Kawarau Bridge Bungy (bungee) jump. Home to the world’s first and most famous of leaps, 43m above the Kawarau River is the world’s best-loved Bungy site.

Opened in 1988, the Kawarau Bridge Bungy is ‘The Original’, the World’s first commercial bungy site. Jumpers launch 43m off this Historic Bridge, which spans the Kawarau River 20 minutes outside Queenstown, New Zealand. Jumpers arrive at the Kawarau Bungy Centre, where they are briefed, weighed and sign waiver forms, before heading out onto the historic Kawarau Bridge. Jump deck crews harness each jumper and attach foot cuffs before 5… 4… 3… 2… 1… BUNGY!


You can choose from a number of options; topple over backwards, forwards, with another person, spin or somersault. Kawarau Bridge Bungy is also the only Bungy in Queenstown where you can choose to bob above the water, touch it, or be fully immersed.

Jumpers are then lowered into a raft and walk back up to the Kawarau Bungy Centre where they can check out photos and videos of their jump (purchasing of photo and video is at an additional cost) and browse through our selection of exclusive merchandise.

Spectators are more than welcome to stop by the Kawarau Bungy Centre. If Transport is needed there is a charge of $30.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Lord of the Rings Tour

Spend the day taking in the breathtaking sights of the land around Queenstown; with time spent at ‘Lord of the Rings’ filming locations.

For true Lord of the Rings fans, this is the trip where Nomad Safaris really does take you There and Back again. This scenic sightseeing tour includes recognizable filming locations and stunning natural scenery. The Glenorchy Safari of the Scenes takes you from Queenstown to Glenorchy stopping at breath-taking viewpoints. 

En route from Glenorchy follow the Dart River to the spectacular filming location for Isengard. This location offers stunning views of Mt Earnslaw. Heading to Paradise discover the location for the Forrest of Lothlorien. Leaving Glenorchy and heading towards Queenstown you will stop at 12 Mile Delta to explore the location of the Ithilien Camp. This tour also includes locations from X-men Origins: Wolverine, and The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.

Operates
Daily
Departs 8:00am or 1:30pm, Returns 12:30pm or 6:30pm (approx.)

Includes
– Return transfers from your hotel or information center
– Visit filming locations
– Beautiful views
– Gold pan in the Arrow River
– Safari vehicle is a 4WD Land Cruiser or Rover

Need to Know
You have the option of staying in or near the vehicle for any of the stops on the tour.

Upgrades
Private tours available
Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour

THE LORD OF THE RINGS and the characters, places, events and items contained therein, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Middle-Earth Enterprises, LLC and are used under license by Rings Scenic Tours Limited and Wingnut Film Productions Limited, which are independently owned and operated.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - TSS Earnslaw Steamboat Cruise

Relive the elegance of bygone days with a 1.5 hour cruise aboard a vintage steamship.

Your trip will take you across the lake, past the Remarkables mountain range and Cecil Peak, to Walter Peak High Country Farm. (You can choose to add a Walter Peak Farm Tour, a gourmet long lunch/dinner, or simply cruise back to Queenstown Bay. A visit to the engine room reveals the giant steam engines at work. Close by you can view the collection of historical photos in the mini museum, check out the bridge or, if you’d rather, kick back and enjoy a wine or beer or some café food at the on-board Promenade Café and Bar (not included). The TSS Earnslaw has carried many famous visitors, including Queen Elizabeth, Prince Phillip and even President Bill Clinton. Undoubtedly, this iconic tour is one not to miss.

Operates:
Daily (except Christmas Day and not operating from 20MAY to 30JUN)
Starts multiple times daily from 12:00pm to 7:00pm (1.5 Hour Tour)

Includes:
– Return cruise on the TSS Earnslaw

Need to know:
Licensed bar available aboard the TSS Earnslaw (Food and drinks not included). Substitute vessel used during 15May-26Jun maintenance period. Please bring non-slip shoes/boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, warm clothing and camera.

Upgrades:
Can upgrade experience to include a Walter Peak Farm tour or include a New Zealand BBQ lunch or dinner.

Photo Credit: Real Journeys

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Walter Peak Farm & BBQ Lunch Excursion - ½ Day

This is a New Zealand farming tour like no other. A visit to the Walter Peak High Country Farm is the perfect opportunity to spend a relaxing few hours enjoying an interactive farming experience.

Farming in the New Zealand high country is a way of life – and it’s one you can get up close to at Walter Peak.
Situated on picturesque Lake Whakatipu’s south-western shores, Walter Peak High Country Farm is an idyllic place. The farm tour itself is a wonderful interactive experience, with something to keep everyone entertained and happy. You will be greeted by your rural host upon disembarking the TSS Earnslaw, who will take you to the amphitheater, where you will watch the remarkable skill with which the farm dogs round up sheep from the paddocks. You will have time for a walking tour of the farmyard, visiting the holding pens, where you can help feed the sheep and deer and even get up close to the Scottish Highland Cattle. Then a stroll to the charming old woolshed for afternoon tea. You may have time to stroll through the lakeside gardens before you re-board the TSS Earnslaw for your cruise back to Queenstown.

Operates
Daily (except Christmas and not operating 20MAY to 30JUN)
Starts multiple times daily from 11am to 3pm (3.5 Hour Tour)

Includes
– Return cruise on the TSS Earnslaw
– Guided Farm tour
– Sheep dog demonstration
– Enjoy afternoon tea, freshly baked at the farm

Need to Know
Licensed bar available aboard the TSS Earnslaw (Own expense). Substitute vessel used during 15May-26Jun maintenance period. Please bring non-slip shoes/boots, warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses and camera.

Upgrades
Can add BBQ lunch or dinner to your farm experience.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Otago Wine Tour - ½ Day

Enjoy an afternoon exploring some of the award winning wineries in the Queenstown region.

Take this afternoon tour and experience the true flavor of our local pinot noir and other wine varietals at three premium vineyards. Enjoy a guided tour through the vines and into New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave. This relaxing tour travels just a short distance from Queenstown where you will be given in-depth wine tastings and presentation at each vineyard.

You have plenty of time to unwind and get yourself a winery lunch (own expense) or sample a selection of local cheeses, craft beer, coffee (there is an opportunity to substitute wine tasting for beer at time of booking).

Operates
Daily (except Christmas, Boxing Day, Good Friday, & Easter)
Departs 12:00pm and Returns 4:30pm (approx.)

Includes
– Return transfers from hotel
– Hosted tasting at 3 wineries
– Underground wine cave tour
– 12+ wine tastings

Need to Know
Please bring money for Winery lunch. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.

Upgrades
Private Wine & Food

Photo Credit: Southern Public Relations

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Zip Lining over Queenstown

Join in on an exhilarating zipline adventure above spectacular Queenstown with stunning views across Lake Wakatipu to the Remarkables mountain range! Ride up the Skyline Gondola and then glide through the treetops on a series of four flying foxes.


 
Your experienced Guides will deliver an interpretive tour as you “Zzziiiiiip” from tree to tree. Breathe in some pristine mountain air as you venture on a carefully crafted journey that combines exhilaration, adventure, and ecological exploration. The ziplines start low and slow and gradually build your confidence as they get progressively longer, higher and faster.

Offering spectacular views of the surroundings, this tour offers a thrilling eco-adventure experience, while also providing the opportunity to learn about what this breathtaking place has to offer.

Operates:
Daily. 365 days a year rain or shine.
Tour times: 10a, 12p, 2p, 4p
CLOSED 24APR23-JUL23

Includes:
– Four Ziplines/Flying Foxes
– Gondola Ticket
– Safety equipment including harness and helmet

Need to Know:
– Longest zipline distance: 240m (787ft)
– Reach speeds of up to 50kph (31mph)
– No minimum weight. Mini zippers may go tandem with their guide.
– Max weight: 125 kgs (275 lbs)
– Min age: 6 years
– Closed footwear is required
– Cameras are allowed but should be secured. GoPro cameras available to rent.
– Please don’t bring bulky items such as backpacks
– In winter, hats, gloves and heavy coats are recommended.

Upgrades:
6-Zipline tour available

(Day 11) - Shuttle Transfer, Queenstown Accommodation to Airport

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

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 11) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Queenstown to Auckland

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

(Day 11) - 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.

  • a) All prices are USD$/person (including all Taxes). Subject to availability and seasonality. Other Conditions Apply (see Terms and Conditions).
  • b) Land Content Only represents the pricing for the full itinerary as detailed, except the International Flights from the USA (and return) are NOT included.
  • c) An Infant (Lapchild) must be less than 2 years old on the date of departure. Infant must travel with at least one adult. An infant with a seat pays the price of a Child.
  • d) A Child must be aged between 2-11 years on the date of departure. Child must travel with at least one adult.