19 Days: Kiwi Selfdrive Getaway [ST-3597]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Auckland (2 Nights), Hamilton (1), New Plymouth (2), Tongariro (2), Wellington (1), Nelson (2), Punakaiki (2), Franz Josef (1), Wanaka (2), Queenstown (2)
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland (Return)
  • US Domestic Flights - Not Included (as per your own arrangements)
  • New Zealand Domestic Flights - Queenstown to Auckland
  • Day Tours - Wellington: Scenic Ferry to Picton; Nelson: Abel Tasman Walk & Kayak Tour
  • Shuttle Transfers - Auckland Airport to Accommodation
  • Rental Car - 6 Day Rental: Pick-up in Auckland, Drop-off in Wellington; 9 Day Rental: Pick-up in Picton, Drop-off in Queenstown
  • Rental Car (Base rate only) does not include taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees.
  • All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (US$15.00 per person)
  • 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) - 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 3) - Free Day to Explore Auckland

Visit one of Auckland’s many attractions.

Fly a kite or throw a Frisbee in the beautifully landscaped Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park. Critique a giant selection of both traditional and contemporary art at Auckland Art Gallery. Take a walking, swim or hike through any of Auckland’s 25 Regional Parks. Have a laugh at The Classic Comedy and Bar in Queen Street, New Zealand’s home of live comedy. Take the bus over to Eden Park, New Zealand’s largest stadium. In the evening you can join the dancing on K’Road and party on till the wee hours at one of the many nightclubs. Or maybe you would rather visit the trendy suburb of Ponsonby and enjoy delicious cuisine, superb lattes or cocktails if more to your taste. And if it is cafes, bars and restaurants you’re after, the Viaduct Harbour has a great selection.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand – Julian Apse

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- 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), Captain Cook Memorial Museum, Flagstaff Hill and the oldest building in the country (Kemp House) along with the oldest Church. 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: Pickups from accommodations, admission to Waitangi Treaty House, a Cape Brett cruise and boxed lunch.

Photo Credit: Destination Northland

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- 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!



Daily at 10:45am & 1:45pm. Tours do not operate on Christmas day.

(Days 4 to 10) - 6 Days Car Rental

Discover New Zealand as you travel by rental car for six 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.

(Day 4) - Self-Drive to Hamilton
(Days 4 to 5) - 1 Night Accommodation in Hamilton
(Day 5) - Self-Drive to New Plymouth
(Days 5 to 7) - 2 Nights Accommodation in New Plymouth
(Day 6) - Free Day to Explore New Plymouth

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

(Day 7) - Self-Drive to Tongariro
(Days 7 to 9) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Tongariro

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

Your alpine accommodation is located within Whakapapa Village – in the heart of Tongariro National Park and was constructed during the ‘roaring twenties’

Your room features a King Bed, and you will enjoy a TV with Sky TV channels, tea and coffee making facilities, a mini-bar, and a full bathroom.

Your room also contains: Complimentary tea, coffee and cookies; SKY TV channels with in room movies; In-room safe; Steam iron & ironing board; Hairdryer; Radio alarm clock; IDD telephone; Wireless broadband; Express mini bar ordering; 24 hour room service

(Day 8) - Free Day to Explore Tongariro

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

(Day 9) - Self-Drive to Wellington
(Days 9 to 10) - 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 10) - 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.

(Days 10 to 19) - 9 Days Car Rental

Discover New Zealand as you travel by rental car for nine 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.

(Day 10) - Self-Drive to Nelson
(Days 10 to 12) - 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 11) - Day Tour - Abel Tasman Beach, Kayak & Walk - Full Day

Kayak to Split Apple Rock, then take a cruise from Kaiteriteri to the long golden sands of Anchorage Beach.

Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s natural wonders on this adventure that blends thrills, tranquility, and breathtaking beauty, catering to nature enthusiasts and adventure aficionados.
The day starts with a scenic coastal boat ride, and as you arrive at picturesque Split Apple Beach, your kayak adventure begins. Guided by experts, you’ll paddle along the coast, exploring hidden coves, sea caves, and wildlife-rich waters.

The adventure continues with a walk along the renowned Abel Tasman Coast Track. A delectable beachfront lunch is provided for rejuvenation. The tour’s flexibility lets you personalize your adventure. As the day ends, your boat will transport you back, leaving you with cherished memories of an extraordinary day exploring the unspoiled beauty of Abel Tasman National Park. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in this coastal paradise.

Operates
Daily, except Christmas Day
Departs 9:00am, Returns 4:15pm (approx.)

Includes
– Return hotel transfers from Nelson
– Return boat transfers from Kaiteriteri
– Guided kayak tour
– A stable double kayak with paddles, so two people share the paddling effort. If you are travelling on your own, your guide will find you a suitable kayaking partner
– Kayak skirt to minimize water splashing into your kayak
– Spray jacket (water resistant but not waterproof)
– Buoyancy aid
– Dry bags for spare clothing and camera gear. Bags are waterproof if sealed correctly
– Maximum eight people per guide
– Boat back-up
– In the cooler months, gloves and booties are provided (bring socks for lining)
– Cruise to Anchorage Beach
– Time on Anchorage beach to explore
– Picnic lunch

Need to Know
Children under 10 not allowed. Guides will provide training for those less experienced at kayaking before the tour starts. No guarantee that your sensitive electronic equipment could be damaged against splashing. Bring a spare set of clothing and warm layer to be stored in the kayak so you can change into dry gear if necessary. Footwear for kayaking is optional. Light shoes or water socks are best. Your feet will get wet. Bring shoes and socks for walking on the beach and trails. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.

(Day 12) - Self-Drive to Punakaiki
(Days 12 to 14) - 2 Night Accommodation in Punakaiki

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

A modern accommodation complex located on Punakaiki Beach near the world famous Pancake Rocks and Blow Holes on the West Coast of the South Island. The resort has been designed to maximize the surrounding environment with beautiful ocean and rainforest views of the Paporoa National Park. Any closer to the sea and we would be floating!

(Day 13) - Free Day to Explore Punakaiki

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

(Day 14) - Self-Drive from Punakaiki to Franz Josef

Drive time: approximately 3 hours.

Depart Punakaiki for Franz Josef. It’s a stunning trip where you have the wild Tasman Sea on one side, and the snow-capped Southern Alps on the other.

Activity suggestions: Be sure to check out the Punakaiki rocks – a pancake like rock formation; Around the town of Greymouth you’ll find galleries specialising in pounamu (New Zealand jade); Visit The Hokitika Gorge and view the vivid turquoise water surrounded by lush native bush.

(Days 14 to 15) - 1 Night Accommodation in Franz Josef

Travel to just outside the main Franz Josef Glacier village, your Accommodation is the ideal base for you to enjoy your vacation and everything the Glacier region and the glorious New Zealand West Coast has to offer.

Franz Josef Glacier, a perfect paradox. This remote village is set on the six hundred kilometre coastline in the tranquility of Westland National Park and yet offers rest and recreation at city levels amongst some of the wildest scenery in New Zealand. A wonderful relaxing bush environment with one of only two glaciers in the world that descend from crisp, clear snowfalls into lush, temporate rainforest.

New Zealand’s West Coast in the South Island rises from sea level through luxurious rain forest to a breath-taking high country that draws visitors from all over the world on an all-round pilgrimage for the uncluttered and unspoilt beauty that it offers.

Heli-hike on the glacier; take a guided walk; jet boat; go hunting and fishing or take sedate walks. We can make arrangements for all your vacation needs.

Photo Credit: Gareth Eyres; Tourism New Zealand

(Day 15) - Self-Drive to Wanaka
4th - 6th Apr (Days 15 to 17) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Wanaka

Travel to your accommodation in Wanaka, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights in your 1 bedroom apartment.

With lawns stretching right to the water’s edge of Lake Wanaka, this resort is a welcoming retreat. Explore the best that Wanaka has to offer, whether you’re looking to be inspired or you’ve made some plans already. The resort’s team are here to make your stay memorable.

Whatever the season, you’ll find something unique. From delicious regional cafe and restaurant fare to our selection of tailored activities and rejuvenation packages. With hotel suite and apartment accommodation options, visit us and discover how to touch the seasons in Wanaka.

(Day 16) - Free Day to Explore Wanaka

Relax or explore in and around Wanaka!

The lakeside town of Wanaka can provide you with an appealing mix of fine living, family fun, and adventure. It has a high concentration of cafes, restaurants and interesting shops. At the airport you can arrange to go flightseeing or sky diving. Winter is a busy time in Wanaka, as the town fills up with snow sports fans. Local snow venues include Treble Cone, Cardrona and Waiorau. Wanaka is also a handy base if you want to hike or climb in Mount Aspiring National Park.

Photo Credit: Lake Wanaka Tourism

(Day 17) - Self-Drive to Queenstown
(Days 17 to 19) - 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 superb 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 18) - 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) - 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) - 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) - 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

(Day 19) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Queenstown to Auckland

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

(Day 19) - 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.