17 Days: Best of New Zealand Vacation Package [ST-3458A]
Starting at
Please call...
Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Auckland (2 Nights), Rotorua (2), Queenstown (4), Te Anau (2), Dunedin (2), Christchurch (2), Auckland (1)
  • US Domestic Flights - Not Included (as per your own arrangements)
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland (Return)
  • New Zealand Domestic Flights - Auckland to Rotorua, Rotorua to Queenstown, Christchurch to Auckland
  • Shuttle Transfers - Auckland Airport to Accommodation (Return), Rotorua Airport to Accommodation (Return), Christchurch Accommodation to Airport, Auckland Airport to Accommodation (Return)
  • Day Tours - Auckland: Harbour Discover Cruise, Bay of Islands Tour; Rotorua: Te Puia Geothermal Park & Maori Cultural Center; Queenstown: Gondola Ride, Walter Peak Tour; Te Anau: Doubtful Sound, Glow Worm Caves Tour; Christchurch: Alpine Safari
  • Rental Car - 8 Day Rental: Pick-up in Queenstown, Drop-off in Christchurch
  • Rental Car hires are base rate only and do not included taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees
  • All Other Day Tours are Optional and Not Included
  • F.I.T (Free and Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an organized group tour)
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) - Shuttle Transfer, Auckland Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Auckland, 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 4) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Auckland

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

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!

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) - Day Tour, Bay of Islands Tour - Full Day

Marvel at spectacular coastal scenery including the Hole in the Rock, Cathedral Cave and the inner islands while aboard a luxury catamaran. Also see the historic Waitangi Treaty House and a ‘waka’ (Maori war canoe).

Travel north over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and enjoy spectacular rural & coastal scenery enroute to the Bay of Islands via Hibiscus Coast and Whangarei. Bay of Islands is one of the most picturesque and popular vacation sites in New Zealand and was the site of the earliest contact between the indigenous population and European settlers. Take a trip into the past and visit such historical places as the Waitangi Treaty House, see a traditional Maori Meeting House and a huge ‘waka’ (war canoe). In the early afternoon at Cape Brett, board a luxury catamaran for your cruising adventure through game fishing waters as you cruise past the Cape Brett lighthouse to the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’. The excitement grows as you make a passage through the Hole and then continue on to the majestic Grand Cathedral Cave. On your return journey relax and enjoy subtropical paradise views with your favourite drink as you meander through the inner islands back to Cape Brett which are world renowned deep sea fishing grounds where porpoise (dolphins) and schools of fish are frequently seen. With the Bay of Islands’ combination of great fishing, diving, sailing and other water sports with some of New Zealand’s most significant historic sites you will be sure to have fun!

Includes: Pick-ups from accommodations, admission to Waitangi Treaty House, & a Cape Brett cruise

Photo Credit: Destination Northland

(Day 4) - Shuttle Transfer, Auckland Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Auckland, 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 4) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Auckland to Rotorua

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

(Day 4) - Shuttle Transfer, Rotorua Airport to Accommodation

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

(Days 4 to 6) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Rotorua

Located on the shores of picturesque Lake Rotorua with commanding views over the lake and surrounding hinterland, your 2 nights accommodation is just a few minutes stroll to the city centre.

Your 4 star accommodation features the best of everything in Rotorua! The spa and fitness club have combined the benefits of the areas geothermal waters, culture and relaxation to enhance a holistic sense of wellbeing. Take some time to experience the Matariki Cultural Centre and encounter the warmth and spirit of the Maori people.

Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room

Image Credit: Tourism New Zealand

(Day 5) - Day Tour, Te Puia Maori Institute & Geothermal Reserve

Be guided through the greenstone, wood carving and flax weaving schools at the New Zealand Maori Arts & Crafts Institute, Rotowhio Pa, Kiwi Conservation Centre and Te Whajarewarea geotherm valley. You’ll visit an ancient Maori valley where geysers, mud pools and boiling waters still play after 40,000 years.

As direct descendents, your Maori guides will offer insight into their heritage, pride and values, that no other tour in New Zealand can match. Your guide will re-tell stories that have been handed down for generations while you experience a visual gallery of the myths and legends of the region. Make your way to the carving school where you are able to see the Maori students at work.

As the Kiwi bird has been at home in New Zealand for over 70 million years, it is a fortunate experience to visit the specially designed Kiwi House, which takes part in the successful national breeding program, while listening to other song birds of the valley. Next you will be transported back to pre-European times as you walk through the recreation of a typical Maori village among a forest setting including the weaving house, sleeping and food storage houses, weapons and implements necessary to pre-European life. Lastly, enjoy a raw and powerful journey into a thermal wonderland some 40,000 years old as mud pools, hissing steam and geysers pay tribute to Mother Nature.

Operates
Daily
9am – 4pm, 90-minute (approx.) guided tours departing every half hour. Allow 2 hours.

Inclusions
– Access to Ahua Gallery, a range of collections including paunamu, wood carving, whale bone, stone and more.
– Geothermal Walk, 60-hectare landscape of uncovered natural bush, geysers and mud polls.
– Kiwi Conservation Center, get up-close-and-personal with one of New Zealand’s natural treasures.
– Maori Carving and Weaving, traditional art performed before your eyes.
– Maori Village, get a rare glimpse into how the Maori people lived prior to European settlement.
– Guided Tour, Discover Te Puia’s history and lineage with a personalized guided tour – each guide adds a personal touch to inspire and help visitors truly connect with the experience.

Need to Know
Comfortable clothes and walking shoes recommended. Child rates available.

Upgrades
– Haka Maori Cultural Performance
– Te Po Indigenenous Evening Experience
– Te Puia Light Trails by Night
– Hangi Buffet Lunch or Dinner

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.

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.

Operates:
Daily 5:30pm-8:30pm

Includes:
– Return transfers from your Rotorua CBD accommodation
– Buffet dinner
– Maori cultural performance
– Hot chocolate
– Guided tour of the geothermal valley

Need to know:
Please advise of dietary requirements.

(Day 6) - 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 6) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Rotorua to Queenstown

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

(Days 6 to 14) - 8 Days Car Rental

Discover New Zealand as you travel by rental car for eight days.

Take the opportunity to explore parts of New Zealand at your own pace by car. Please bring a valid American driver’s license with you and be aware that in New Zealand people drive on the left hand side of the road.

*Upgrade available to include GPS navigation system (additional cost).

Base rate only paid by About Australia. Insurance, Premium Location Surcharge, Fuel and Fees to driver’s credit card.

(Days 6 to 10) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Queenstown

Travel to your accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 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 7) - 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.

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

(Day 8) - Day Tour - Walter Peak Farm

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience – a delicious gourmet BBQ lunch and a farm tour in a stunning lakeside setting.

Your lunch starts with a cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw across to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Once there, you can sit back on the lakeside terrace of the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant and savour the delicious aromas as our chef has the best of local produce, sizzling away on the grill.

Our lunch menu has been refreshed with the introduction of our new executive chef, so you’ll have a plenty to choose from our seasonal summer menu – salads, vegetables, succulent meat cooked on the outdoor rotisserie or grill. If you’re vegetarian, don’t worry, you are well catered for too. Then finish your meal with a scrumptious dessert.

After your lunch, you can join an entertaining farm demonstration or explore the beautiful lakeside gardens.

(Day 9) - 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) - 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)- Shotover Jet

Welcome to Shotover Jet Country, Queenstown New Zealand.

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).

Operates
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.

Includes
– 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

Need to Know
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.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Dart River Safari - ½ Day

This jet boat adventure offers your senses a feast of spectacular natural beauty on a journey into the wilderness of the World Heritage-listed Mt. Aspiring National Park.

Your day begins with 1.5 hour journey on a jet boat through the Dart River system. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful snow-covered peaks, hidden valleys & waterfalls. Your day includes a guided walk (30 minutes) along the ‘Heritage Trail’ at Paradise. Your guide will provide you with informative & entertaining commentary about the ancient native beech forest. The forests of this region sit within a World Heritage Area, one of the only natural sites of its kind that is accessible to the public.

Your guide details the fascinating history of this area from the days of Gondwanaland, to quests by Maori for prized pounamu, to the present-day efforts of New Zealand’s department of conservation for the preservation of the area. On the ride home, you will stop to view the epic backdrop for many international movies, including ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy.

Dart River Wilderness Safari is a high-country adventure. To ensure that your experience is truly enjoyable, please: Dress warmly and wear comfortable walking shoes, regardless of season or weather. Bring sunglasses, a sunhat and sunscreen (insect repellent could also be useful in some weather conditions). Note that cameras are carried at customer’s risk.

Tour itself is approximately 3 hours.

Operates
Daily. Does not operate on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Departs Queentown 8:30am
Departs Glenorchy 9:30am

Includes
– Highly experienced professional driver and guide 
– Thrilling ride on a modern, well maintained twin engine jet boat
– Life jackets 
– Transport from central Queenstown location or Glenorchy central location

Need to Know
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 10) - Self Drive from Queenstown to Te Anau

The drive from Queenstown to Te Anau is about 2 hours long, but heavy traffic in the summer months can cause delays.

Follow the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Kingston with the Remarkables Mountain Range ever present on your left- hand side. Continue on to Lumsden. Todays drive is through undulating hill country dotted with sheep farms.

High country landscapes and trout fishing rivers are features of the road to Te Anau. The first part of your drive clings scenically to the edge of Lake Wakatipu. The Remarkables Mountain Range will be ever present on your left hand side. Continue on to Lumsden and go west to TeAnau.

Te Anau township sits on the shores of Lake Te Anau. From here, the delights of the Fiordland National Park are within easy reach, including the start of the Milford Track. Cruise on the lakes, walk the tracks and visit the Department of Conservation wildlife centre. The Te Ana-au Caves are an excellent adventure.

If you have time, there are quite a few great places to stop along the way. View our map for some ideas.

-One of the best hikes in Queenstown, the Wye Creek Track, takes about 4 hours for advanced hikers.
-A quick stop for a great photo can be found at Devil’s Staircase Lookout
-Grab a cup of coffee at Kingston Café Bar
-Check out the very cute Garston Hunny Shop
-See some art and have some great food at Five Rivers Café and Art Gallery. Plus there is an amazing view!

Click here to plan find travel times, roadwork information and road condition updates.

(Days 10 to 12) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Te Anau

Tucked away on the shores of New Zealand’s second largest lake, Te Anau is an inviting South Island town.

Te Anau is your gateway to the walking capital of the world. Discover the internationally renowned walks of the Milford Track,the Routeburn, Hollyford,Kepler Track and many more. Cruise the remote depths of Milford and Doubtful Sounds, visit the spectacular lakes of Te Anau and Manapouri, experience Te Anau’s magical glowworm caves. In Fiordland you can go hiking, caving, boating, diving, biking, play golf, go fly fishing, sky dive. Soar over the wilderness on a scenic flight, explore the water on a kayaking adventure, breathe in the scents of native forest on a guided walk .Cruise the beauty of Milford or Doubtful sounds or simply enjoy a round of golf.

Whatever your desire, whether it be leisure or activity you crave, there’s plenty to see and do.

*Optional Upgrade Available to Lakeside property (Pricing Upon Request)

Photo Credit: Destination Fiordland

(Day 10) - Day Tour - Doubtful Sound

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 the Manapouri Visitor Centre.

Operates:
Daily
Departs 10:00am, returns 5:15pm (approx.)

Includes:
– Return transfers from the Manapouri Visitor Centre
– 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

(Day 11) - Day Tour - Glow Worm Caves

As you explore by path and small boat, your senses will be overwhelmed. The delicate incandescence of thousands of tiny glowworms is a magical sight.

Your Te Anau Glowworm Cave adventure begins with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau to the western side of the lake.

Upon arrival there is time to view informative displays at Cavern House before our friendly guides invite you to accompany them underground in small groups.Explore a mysterious underground world of rushing water before drifting in silent darkness beneath the luminous shimmer of thousands of glowworms in the glowworm grotto.

Reasonable agility level is required as there are some bending due to low caves and some steps. Please do not wear high heels.
Duration 2hrs 30mins

(Day 12) - Self Drive from Te Anau to Dunedin

This morning drive from Te Anau to Dunedin. Enjoy the beautiful South Island scenery along the way, approximately 4 hours.

(Days 12 to 14) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Dunedin

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

Welcome to Dunedin’s only garden hotel, located within two acres of beautifully kept garden, and just a six-minute drive from the city centre (or seven, in rush hour). Neighboring the Dunedin Botanic Garden, you will be a short stroll to Otago Museum and the University of Otago. Forsyth Barr Stadium is also within easy walking distance. The unique surroundings make for a truly relaxing place to stay, no matter how busy your visit might be.

(Day 14) - Free Day to Explore Dunedin

Rest, Relax or Explore Dunedin.

There is so much to do in Dunedin. Visit the city centre – which is shaped like an Octagon and see the 100 year old statue of poet Robbie Burns. Enjoy the architecture, especially the Old Railway Station a couple of blocks from the city centre. Dunedin Botanical Gardens – occupying over 123 acres in the north end of the city is an excellent place for a several-hour stroll.

Baldwin Street is located in Dunedin’s North East Valley suburb. According to the Guinness Book of Records it is the steepest street in the world. Take the ten minute walk to the top or drive up to enjoy the view looking down! There is a drinking fountain at the top. Don’t forget Larnach Castle, the only castle in New Zealand; it’s very pretty but technically only a manor house.

See the visitor’s centre in the Octagon for further information.

Photo Credit: Dunedin NZ

(Day 14) - Self-Drive from Dunedin to Christchurch

Drive from Dunedin and head north on State Highway 1 to Christchurch, approximately 5 hours.

Situated 110 km/68 miles north of Dunedin, is Oamar. Wonder at the Sperical Moeraki Boulders. Visit the historic limstone precint and view the Omaru penguin colony coming ashore at dusk. Along the way stop in Ashburton, for the Ashford Craft Village, which specializes in wood crafts and spinning wheels. In Temuka you can explore the Temuka Pottery Shop for locally made pottery.

(Days 14 to 16) - 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 15) - Day Tour, Alpine Safari - Full Day

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 16) - Shuttle Transfer, Christchurch Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Christchurch, 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 16) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Christchurch to Auckland

Travel within New Zealand from Christchurch to Auckland (North Island).

(Day 16) - Shuttle Transfer, Auckland Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Auckland, 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 16 to 17) - 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 17) - Shuttle Transfer, Auckland Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Auckland, 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 17) - 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.