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).

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

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.

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

Your 5 Star luxury hotel is located adjacent to the harbour waterfront, within close walking distance to popular attractions and is at the centre of the capital’s political, commercial and corporate worlds, only a short walk from history, culture and shopping. Te Papa Museum of New Zealand, the Museum of Wellington City & Sea, Wellington’s iconic Cablecar, Westpac Trust Stadium and a host of art galleries are nearby.

Your accommodation offers the following services: Valet Service, Cable / Satellite TV, Color TV, In Room Movies – Pay Per View/Premium Cable, Coffee Maker, Mini Bar, Refrigerator, Tea Maker, Electrical Adapters Available, Power Converters Available, spare Electrical Outlet at Desk, Phone with Voice Mail, Bathrobe, Bathtub, Hairdryer, Private Bathroom, In Room Safe, Individually Controlled Air Conditioning, Iron / Ironing Board, and all rooms are non-smoking.

*Room type upgrade available upon request

Wellington, voted the ‘Coolest Little Capital in the World’ offers the visitor heaps of cool things to do that just happen to be free.

New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington, sits nestled in a natural amphitheatre around the harbour. It is easy to explore on foot and there are heaps of great things to see and do that don’t cost a cent.

Visit the dynamic and interactive National Museum of NZ – Te Papa on the waterfront. Get your city bearings and some of Wellington’s best views at the Mount Victoria Lookout. Ride the historic Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Garden. Four Wellington restaurants have won NZ’s Best Restaurant in the last five years. It’s safe to say you’ll be eating very well while in Wellington! Hear the birdsong and spot a tuatara as you walk through ZEALANDIA: The Karori Sanctuary Experience. Get an inside peek into Wellywood at The Weta Cave in Miramar. Go stargazing and check out the amazing planetarium show at Carter Observatory. Seeking hidden treasures? Many of Wellington’s best night spots are tucked away for your finding, such as Motel, Library or Duke Carvell’s Swan Lane Emporium. Head to Cuba Street for a slice of Bohemia, boutique shopping and some of the best coffee in town.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

Take a trip to the Weta Cave, a mini-museum, a shop and a theaterette that you can visit.

On the corner of the Weta premises in Miramar, Wellington. The museum contains props from films and projects such as Lord of the Rings! In the theaterette we show a 20 minute behind-the-scenes DVD about the work that goes on at Weta. Be sure to visit the shop, which offers everything from souvenirs and Weta merchandise to collectible sculptures.

Entry: Free: Hours: Seven Days a Week, 9:00am – 5:30pm; Phone: 64 (04) 380 9361
Address: Corner of Camperdown Road and Weka Street, Miramar, Wellington
Bus Route 2: Get off at Camperdown Road

See the Southern skies & celebrate the culture, heritage and science of the Southern Skies at Carter Observatory – New Zealand’s longest-serving national observatory.

The Carter Observatory is located in Wellington’s beautiful Botanic Gardens at the top of the Cable Car. It is 2 minutes from the top of the Cable Car, 5 minutes walk from the Botanic Garden’s Playground, 8 minutes for the Treehouse Visitor Centre and an easy walk along Upland Road, Kelburn. The easiest way to reach Carter is via Wellington’s iconic Cable Car.

Take a virtual journey through space in Carter’s new planetarium – a state-of-the-art full-dome digital theatre, then take your own steps through space as you walk through the world-class interactive multimedia space experience.

Discover our Universe, along with some of New Zealand’s most prestigious telescopes and astronomical artefacts. Before and after you visit we encourage you to download the latest sky chart to spot the stars.

Open Daily 10am – 5pm Tours Are Not Included (Pay As You Go).

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.

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.

Today you will travel by shuttle from Picton to Nelson, New Zealand.

Enjoy your scenic and relaxing shuttle from Picton over to Nelson.

Travel to your accommodation in Nelson, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 3 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

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

Abel Tasman Water & Walk is for those visitors who prefer faster access into the park by water taxi so that they may spend more time exploring the many features this national park has to offer and discovering there is much more here than anticipated.

Abel Tasman National Park is world famous for its golden sand beaches, turquoise waters, completely unmodified estuaries, lush bush to the high tide mark and the excellent walking tracks.

This added value, fully guided journey interprets the less obvious features such as the early settler activity as well as Maori history and the endless stories that abound here, especially from the rich variety of vegetation, birds and aquatic life.

Departs: 8AM – 10 hours
Lunch included.

Photo Credit: Nelson Tasman Tourism

For the best of everything, this trip is for you.

Take a scenic cruise into Tonga Island Marine Reserve, pausing to watch the antics at its resident Fur Seal Colony. Land at historic Tonga Quarry beach to walk 2 – 2.5 hours (4.1 kms, 2.5 miles) over a forested saddle and around spectacular Bark Bay estuary with its cascading waterfalls. Rejoin the Cruise at the sheltered golden cove, Medlands Beach.

Extended Cruise: (Available year-round, 9:30 am departure only)
Stay on board the boat to cruise the spectacular northern beaches to Totaranui, then return to Tonga Quarry for your walk to Medlands Beach.

Walking time: approx. 2 – 2.5 hours
Time ashore: from 2 hrs 40mins to 5hrs 45 mins

Cruise the spectacular granite coastline to the golden beaches of the Marine Reserve.

Scenic Cruise, Walk & Kayak
Departing from Nelson or Kaiteriteri Beach and board a relaxing scenic cruise on the Abel Tasman Sea Shuttle which will bring you up to Totaranui. While on your cruise you will learn about the history of the park from the experienced skippers as they take you along a string of beautiful beaches. Then head south to Anchorage Bay where you disembark. Enjoy breath-taking views as you walk to Watering Cove where your kayak guide awaits you.
Kayaking south, we watch for playful seals as you visit Adele Island and embrace the wonderful
bird song ringing from this bush clad coastline. This kayak trip is great for taking it easy and
exploring the nooks and crannies of this stunning coastal paradise. Then kayak to Marahau beach where you connect with your return transport to Kaiteriteri Motueka or Nelson.

Operation: All Year round: Closed Christmas Day

Boat to Anchorage and relax on the beach or do some short walks.

Abel Tasman National Park is world famous for its golden sand beaches, turquoise waters, completely unmodified estuaries, lush bush to the high tide mark and the excellent walking tracks.

Depart Kaiteriteri for Anchorage and relax on the beach.

Enjoy a one hour return walk to Te Pukatea Bay; a 1½ hour return walk to Pitt Head to view the lighthouse and panoramic views, or, from Anchorage, walk to Cleopatra’s Pool.

Cruise into the heart of the National Park with full commentary to introduce you to this fascinating coastline.

Disembark at idyllic Medlands Beach – Bark Bay. Walk to the long golden-sand beach of Anchorage, via Torrent Bay. The track weaves through sunny groves of Manuka and fern between breathtaking views of the granite coast and lush gullies of mature forest. Cross the spectacular swing bridge at Falls River. Allow extra time (20 minutes return walk plus time to relax beside the pool) to take a short side track beside a crystal forest stream to visit tranquil Cleopatra’s Pool.

Walking time: 4hrs (10.6 kms, 6.5 miles). Allow extra time for Cleopatra’s Pool.
Time ashore: 4hrs 30mins to 6hrs 30mins

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!

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

Take the opportunity to explore parts of New Zealand in and around your vacation town. 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.

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

Your boutique luxury guest lodge located in a tranquil rural setting, surrounded by groves of native trees and bush, with spectacular views of the Kaikoura range mountains and beyond to the Pacific Ocean. A peaceful haven at any time of the year. Featuring the very latest in ‘In-room Technology’.

The lodge is located near some great wilderness walks and just minutes from the beaches and coastal scenic reserves of Kaikoura. Photography workshops available as part of your stay but must be pre-arragned. Neil, the owner, will take guests to places off the beaten track, or
combined with whale watching, dolphin and albatross encounter tours in Kaikoura

Picnic breakfasts for early morning excursion departures, picnic lunches by arrangement. A range of fine dining dinner options and evening snacks by prior arrangement. Wine list available.
Complimentary tea and coffee.

Today enjoy your drive from Nelson to Kaikoura. Enjoy the lush green forests and landscapes as you make your way down to Kaikoura. Upon arrival in Kaikoura, take time to enjoy its offshore wildlife and many walking tracks, approximately 3.5 hours.

Enjoy the splendid cruising waters of Kaikoura on way to your exciting Albatross viewing expedition.

This is Albatross viewing at its best. With the vast offshore canyons and nutrient rich waters, these are the perfect conditions responsible for the variety of sea-life off Kaikoura. With a quick cruise by boat, you will be able to view pelagic birds including: twelve species of albatross, penguins, gannetts, skuas, shearwaters, petrels and terns. The touring vessel has been adapted for maximum wildlife viewing opportunities and on-board identification guides. The tour finishes at 96 Esplanade, Kaikoura.

Operates
Daily
February 1, 2023 – April 31, 2024 Departs 9:00am and Returns 11:30am; and Departs 1:00pm and Returns 3:30pm
May 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024 Departs 10:00am and Returns 12:30pm
Does not operate Christmas Day

Includes
– Albatross viewing cruise

Need to Know
– Children under 3 not permitted on cruise
– If prone to sea sickness, please bring medication
– Participants are responsible for transportation to and from the tour
– Please bring sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, sunhat, and snacks
– Wear clothing and shoes you do not mind getting wet
– Due to weather and unforeseen circumstances, the tour is subject to change or cancellation

Upgrades
– Dolphin cruise and swim

Today enjoy your drive from Kaikoura to Lake Tekapo

Travel to your accommodation at Lake Tekapo, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night..

Set near the shores of Lake Tekapo and surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of the Southern Alps, this resort is a glimmering spectacle on New Zealand’s South Island.

The architectural design of the resort is a reflection of the surrounding Mackenzie Basin landscape and combined with the exceptional facilities and services of this resort, offers the perfect destination for relaxed weekend escapes or as a relished retreat after a hectic day of exploration.

Simply unwind and breathe in the serene atmosphere. Relax amongst our cosy sofa at Rakinui Lounge while enjoying a warming drink or light snack and for breakfast and dinner Rakinui Restaurant serves a diverse selection of international standard cuisine and favoured local delights accompanied with a breathtaking view across Lake Tekapo.

Today enjoy your drive from Lake Tekapo to Mt Cook, approximately 1.25 hours.

The picturesque road from Lake Tekapo to Mt Cook guides you around beautiful Lake Pukaki and through the Tasman Valley. You cannot help but stop and take photos of the the lakes in this area due to the stunning, unique turquoise colour of the waters which is caused by fine, glacier-ground rock particles.

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

Mt Cook National Park is a World Heritage-listed area and is home to Australasia’s highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook Mackenzie – New Zealand’s treasure highland. Clear starry nights, brilliant sunny days, remarkable turquoise blue lakes, valleys of emerald green, snow-capped mountains and glaciers all contribute to a truly breathtaking experience. The Mackenzie Country landscape is spotted with glacial lakes and the bold man-made canal system which delivers hydro-generated energy to the cities and towns of New Zealand. Scenic flights from Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook afford breathtaking views over the Southern Alps and countryside, with ski-plane landings on the Tasman Glacier providing an unforgettable experience. All ski options are available, including heli-skiing and ski touring, and guides are available for climbing, tramping, snowboarding and glaciers exploration. Other activities include: golf, cycling, horse riding, hunting, fishing, boating, kayaking, mountaineering, heli-biking, bird watching, farm visits, garden tours, star gazing and more. Or maybe you’d just prefer a quiet place to sit and enjoy the view.

Photo Credit: Tourism NZ

Today enjoy your drive from Mt. Cook to Queenstown.

Snow capped mountains, lush greenery and piercing blue waters set the backdrop for the drive. Take advantage of those views and stop on the way to soak up the beautiful surroundings.

(3.5 hours)

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

Your 5 Star vacation accommodation features rooms and suites, most offering private balconies with either spectacular mountain or lake views. All rooms are equipped with Plasma television, CD and DVD player, espresso machine, wireless LAN and an additional LCD television in the bathroom. You have an opportunity to relax from your travel by visiting the day spa, business lounge, library, conference area, bar and restaurant. Other activities available include: Bungee jumping, Fly Fishing, Boating, and Golf. Travel and explore the surroundings by visiting New Zealand’s Milford Sound and Central Otago Wineries. For the nature lover, maybe enjoy a nice stroll on walking trails that meander along the lakes shores.

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 or food and drink available for purchase onboard.

Photo Credit: Tourism Media

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.

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

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.