New Zealand - www.leisuretimetours.co.nz - BOUTIQUE JOURNE YS SMALL GR OUP TOURING - Travel Time South Pacific
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New Zealand
B O U T I Q U E J O U R N E Y S S M A L L G R O U P TO U R I N G
www.leisuretimetours.co.nz
Kia Ora! Welcome to New Zealand Known as ‘Aotearoa’ – Land of the Long White Cloud New Zealand’s mix of spectacular scenery, fascinating culture and modern cities makes it the perfect location for the ultimate vacation with a difference. A magnificent country famous for its varied landscapes, New Zealand has sub-tropical and primeval forests, majestic fiords, sparkling clear rivers and lakes, snow-capped mountains, picturesque green farmlands, ice-age glaciers, thermal hot springs, geysers and golden sand beaches. We proudly present you with a wide selection of Boutique Journey itineraries in this brochure encompassing small group touring that visits key visitor attractions and offers superior, centrally located accommodation. New Zealand is comparable in size to Great Britain or Japan, but unlike these countries New Zealand only has a population of 4 million people – making it one of the world’s least crowded countries. It is a haven for those seeking peace, rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill-seekers and adventurers. A temperate climate with relatively small seasonal variation makes it an ideal year-round vacation destination. New Zealand society is diverse, sophisticated and multicultural, and the honesty, friendliness, and openness of Kiwis will impress you. And the great advantage of New Zealand is that all of its diverse physical, cultural, and artistic landscapes are so close to each other! We look forward to showing you around our beautiful country, New Zealand!
Experience New Zealand with us Leisure Time Tours is a family owned and operated touring company, which has provided inspirational travel experiences to our guests since 1987. We are proud of our reputation for putting our clients first in every area of their travel experience – from quality accommodation, dining and entertainment through to comfortable and safe transportation with knowledgeable and friendly guides. We feel that this attitude is one of the most important contributors to our continued success. During Leisure Time Tours’ years of operation we have built a fantastic rapport with our tourist operators, accommodation and cruise providers. Our supplier relationships enable us to ensure that you have a memorable experience with Leisure Time Tours for all the right reasons! Kind regards Les Mehrtens Company Founder and Director
Boutique Journeys
New Zealand Small Group Tours
Our small group escorted tours are very special. We proudly offer flexible, comfortable, good-humoured
and unforgettable journeys with no more than 16 guests per tour. Our unique itineraries and hand-selected
accommodation offer opportunities for personalised experiences and wonderful service.
Our itineraries range from 10-21 days. Our master journey is a superb 21-day tour that packs in the maximum number of unforgettable experiences.
If visitors don’t have 21 days to spare, or wish to combine an escorted journey with tailor-made arrangements, then pick one of our shorter tours
which can join or leave the main tour during our three-week adventures through New Zealand.
Small Group Tours
Our escorted tours are just that – OURS – created by us, exclusively
for our guests. Not only are our itineraries unique, but we choose to
tour with no more than 16 people which means that our small group
Boutique Journeys offer amazing opportunities to get close to the
real New Zealand.
Getting Close Up
Because we are few in number, we can go places and see things
that are simply not practical for ‘coach tour’ groups of 40 or more.
So while we include all the ‘must-see’ sights in our itineraries, we also
add smaller-scale adventures that only a small group can experience.
Guests will never forget their first sight across Auckland Harbour,
or of Aoraki/Mount Cook, but happiest memories may well be of our
guided walk through the Waimangu Valley, comparing wine notes in
Flexible Schedules
Hawke’s Bay or enjoying a leisurely lunch in a Coromandel café. With a small group we can be more flexible about each day’s timetable,
creating opportunities for surprise encounters and time for stops en-route.
Smaller Vehicles So if we spot a Takahe in the mountains we can stop for a photo;
Our small group tour vehicles are agile enough to explore roads if there’s a new exhibition at a museum we can linger longer and if it’s
less-travelled, approaching New Zealand’s most beautiful sights – 90º in the shade we can cool down at the beach before we hit the road
both iconic and hidden gems – from a different angle. We can get again. Our itineraries range from 10 to 21 days so there’s one to suit every
off the beaten track just as easily as we can cruise Highway 1. Our traveller, and we are also flexible enough to top-and-tail any tour with
vehicles are also very comfortable, with good legroom, headroom tailor-made arrangements to suit.
and picture windows to provide a better viewing experience.
In Good Company
Great Leader, Expert Guides In a group of no more than 16 people it is easy to find common ground
New Zealand is a small proud nation and often the first question with like-minded travellers and at the same time enjoy a variety of dinner
visitors are asked is ‘what do you think of our country?’ Kiwis are table conversations. Our small group size also means we can dispense
passionate about showing visitors the best of New Zealand so not with ‘coach tour’ admin like asking guests to wear a name badge –
only are our hand-picked leaders safe drivers in all conditions, but good manners and good humour are more important to us than strict
they are also happy personalities, full of knowledge, enthusiasm, time-keeping. Discovering New Zealand in such good company is a very
insights and practical advice. At some points we meet up with a local special experience, with the potential for serendipitous surprises, a lot of
guide to add his or her expertise to enhance the experience. These laughs and perhaps new friends for life.
include Kiwis who are wildlife, eco, geothermal or Māori specialists
with whom guests can engage on a personal level. Our driver/ guides
Hospitality
will also go “the extra mile” literally to showcase some of Our itineraries include a wonderful mix of hotels and home-stays along the
New Zealand’s hidden gems! way, because we are not confined to using mass market hotels. Sometimes
we choose a large city hotel because of its central location, but wherever
possible we opt for smaller properties with their own character, including
local rural properties so that guests can enjoy some real Kiwi hospitality.
Small Group Touring Options
We have six wonderful itineraries to choose from, each named after a native tree or flower which may be
encountered while travelling with us.
Tane Mahuta
• 21 DAYS from NZ$9500pp
Rimu
• 15 DAYS from NZ$7550pp
• North and South Islands • North & South Islands to
New Zealand’s largest and most famous Queenstown
tree is Tane Mahuta, the Mighty Kauri, Rimu is another native tree, whose
and this is the name we’ve given to timbers were used in building many of
our most comprehensive escorted New Zealand’s oldest houses, including
tour encompassing the country’s some of our favourite character B&Bs.
must-see sights as well as great off-the- Join the Tane Mahuta on Day 3, leave
beaten-track experiences during an on Day 17 from Queenstown, where
unforgettable three week adventure. you can fly to your next destination.
Pohutukawa
• 19 DAYS from NZ$8850pp
Mount
Lily Cook
• North & South Islands
• 13 DAYS from NZ$6090pp
New Zealand’s ‘Christmas Tree’ blazes
• South Island
scarlet in midsummer and is the title of
this satisfyingly in-depth tour of both New Zealand’s famous ‘lily’ is really a
islands, by joining the Tane Mahuta buttercup which grows in profusion on
tour on Day 3, and leaving it on Day 21. the alpine meadows of the Southern
Alps. This tour squeezes more jaw-
dropping scenery into 13 days than any
other! Join the Tane Mahuta on Day 9
and finish on Day 21.
Kowhai
• 17 DAYS from NZ$7990pp
Koromiko
• 10 DAYS from NZ$5590pp
• North & South Islands to • North Island
Queenstown The Koromiko shrub is used to line
Kowhai is the name of New Zealand’s the fire pit for a hangi, adding flavour
unofficial national flower: bright to baked kumara (sweet potato), and
yellow, with nectar beloved by the there are plenty of opportunities to
Tui bird. Join the Tane Mahuta on eat and drink well on our North Island
Day 1, leave on Day 17 from itinerary, which includes key Māori
Queenstown, where you can fly to and geothermal locations. Join the
your next destination. Tane Mahuta on Day 1 and leave in
Wellington on Day 10.
Please note: these prices are in New Zealand Dollars, per person, twinshare, land only. Prices correct at time of printing but may be subject to change.
For departure dates and full pricing details please ask your agent or visit our website: www.leisuretimetours.co.nz
Tane Mahuta
21 DAYS • North and South Island • From NZ$9500pp twinshare, land only
Join
oin us for a three week Boutique Journey that will take you on an adventure like no other.
Experience the breath taking scenery of snow-capped Alps, wander through lush tropical rainforests
and relax on wide sandy beaches.
You will learn how this beautiful land has been shaped by ancient volcanoes and southern seas,
by Māori warriors and colonial settlers. Friendly local guides will share their cultural, historical
and ecological expertise whilst extending a warm welcome to you on this magnifient journey.
Tour Inclusions
• All transport and the services of
DAY 1 • AUCKLAND Haere mai – welcome!
Arrive into Auckland and spend the rst of the
day getting to know the ‘City of Sails’ and your
fellow travellers.
an excellent tour guide City Hotel
• Accommodation based on two DAY 2 • AUCKLAND TO BAY OF ISLANDS (B)
people sharing a double/twin Leaving Auckland behind, we travel up
Northland’s west coast to the Waipoua Forest, afternoon, it is well worth putting on your boots DAY 6 • COROMANDEL PENINSULA TO
room (single supplement applies) to walk to Cathedral Cove. This marine reserve ROTORUA (B) Travel south on the Pacific Coast
where our Māori guide leads us deep into the
• Entrance fees to places of interest forest to see Tane Mahuta, the largest kauri tree is accessible only on foot or by boat: our efforts Highway to Rotorua. Here we take a guided
included on your itinerary in the world. In the afternoon we head east to are rewarded with one of the most photogenic walk of the Government Gardens, and take a
the pretty seaside town of Paihia. beaches in NZ, with water-worn rock formations trip to Te Puia, an active geothermal site, and
• The services of local guides where sparkling against the blue-green of the Pacific. the centre for indigenous arts and crafts and a
Local Bed & Breakfast
referenced DAY 3 • BAY OF ISLANDS (B) We start the day Tonight we share on the cooking duties Kiwi conservation project.
in Russell with a guided tour where we learn enjoying a Kiwi Favourite – a BBQ dinner in the City hotel, 2 nights
Culinary Inclusions about this pretty little town’s rip-roaring garden.
past, when drunken sailors earned it the name,
• 26 meals included: ‘the hell hole of the Pacific’. Enjoy an afternoon
at leisure to explore the area on foot or take a
20 breakfasts (B) 1 lunch (L)
dolphin cruise in the spectacular Bay of Islands.
5 dinners (D) Local Bed & Breakfast
• Enjoy a wine tasting and evening DAY 4 • BAY OF ISLANDS TO COROMANDEL
meal at Mission Estate, New PENINSULA (B) A morning visit to the
Zealand’s oldest winery Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the treaty
between Māori tribes and British settlers was
• Experience an authentic Māori signed in 1840. Later we head south, driving
Hangi dinner and learn about through the lush farmland of Waikato to the
Māori culture Firth of Thames, where we stop to visit the
Miranda Shorebird Centre.
• Appreciate true kiwi hospitality
Private hotel, 2 nights
with a family dinner during your DAY 5 • EXPLORE THE COROMANDEL
rural homestay PENINSULA (BD) White cliffs and golden
beaches, inviting turquoise waters and green
forests are the colours of the Coromandel, with
scarlet highlights courtesy of the flowers of
Pohutukawa trees in summer, making this one
of our favourite regions. Rightly famous is Hot
Water Beach, where warm springs bubble up
through the sand, and when the tide is right
you can dig out your very own ‘spa’ pool for
a wallow. Our recommendation for lunch is
under the fruit trees at Colenso Café. In the
DAY 7 • ROTORUA (BD) This morning we walk mirrors beautiful Mount Cook in its still waters. jet-boat ride or go white-water rafting. Those DAY 20 • ASHBURTON TO CHRISTCHURCH through the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, and This land is the heart of Te Wahipounamu seeking a more relaxed option may choose to (BD) This most English of New Zealand cities hear about the volcanic eruption of Mount – the place of the greenstone – explored discover Lake Wakatipu with a cruise on the suffered a succession of terrible earthquakes in Tarawera in 1886 which destroyed the world- by generations of Maori but penetrated by classic steamship TSS Earnslaw up to Walter 2011. Christchurch is reinventing itself with typical famous ‘Pink & White’ silica terraces. Later, we’ll Europeans only 150 years ago. We head up Peak Station. Kiwi spirit and exciting new projects including spend time at a local Marae to listen to ancient over the Haast Pass along the river road, which DAY 18 • QUEENSTOWN TO MOUNT COOK the cardboard cathedral and RE:Start Shopping legends and learn about Māori lifestyles today. took more than 40 years to complete, travelling NATIONAL PARK (B) Today we drive north via Mall in repurposed shipping containers. A guided An evening Māori cultural concert and beside the icy river and deep into Mt Aspiring Arrowtown, a historical goldmining settlement tour will help you understand the present and traditional Māori meal end the day in style. National Park. The atmosphere lightens as and on to Twizel. We overnight near Mount future hopes for the city. This is the final part of DAY 8 • ROTORUA TO NAPIER (BD) Today we we reach lovely Lake Wanaka, reflecting the Cook home to the country’s highest peak. our journey together so tonight we relax over a head south, past Huka Falls to Lake Taupo mountain peaks that in winter offer superb Country hotel farewell dinner that showcases the best of New where we have time for lunch. We arrive in skiing, and the pretty resort town of Wanaka. DAY 19 • MOUNT COOK TO ASHBURTON Zealand food and wine. Napier mid-afternoon and take a guided Local Bed & Breakfast (BD) A beautiful drive along Lake Pukaki to City hotel walking tour of this fabulous Art Deco city. DAY 14 • WANAKA TO TE ANAU (B) This The Hermitage, our starting point for a choice DAY 21 • DEPART CHRISTCHURCH (B) The area is also well loved for its fabulous wines morning there is time to relax, you may wish of easy walks along the Hooker Valley trail for If you are leaving New Zealand today, after so this evening our treat is a dinner with a glass to take a jet boat ride up the Matukituki River a close up of the majestic Mount Cook. Later, breakfast we transfer you to Christchurch of wine at the Mission Estate Winery. or take the opportunity to enjoy one of New we drop you off in smaller groups at three or Airport for your flight home. Alternatively we Private hotel Zealand’s best half day walks – The Diamond four rural properties around Ashburton, where can extend your stay in Christchurch for a few DAY 9 • NAPIER TO WELLINGTON (B) Lake and Rocky Mountain Trail. As we depart your hosts will extend their hospitality to you days or arrange onward independent touring This morning we travel south through the Wanaka we stop to quench our thirst at the to with a farm tour followed by a delicious by car or TranzAlpine train. Either way, we must Wairarapa to arrive in the country’s capital city much photographed Cardrona Pub before home-cooked dinner and a cosy night’s stay. say farewell, and waving you off with amazing Wellington. Spend the afternoon sightseeing, travelling around Lake Wakatipu and into Rural Homestay memories of your time in New Zealand. and take the cable car up to the Kelburn Te Anau, gateway to the magnificent Fiordland lookout before walking back down through the National Park. Botanic Gardens and enjoying tea in the Lady Country hotel, 2 nights Rosewood Garden. Visit Te Papa, the National DAY 15 • TE ANAU TO MILFORD SOUND (BL) Museum, to learn more about the culture and Depart Te Anau for a full day excursion history of New Zealand. travelling via Fiordland National Park to Milford City hotel Sound. The scenery is spectacular with lofty DAY 10 • WELLINGTON TO NELSON (B) mountains and deep valleys carved out by Ice We board the Interislander Ferry across the Age glaciers. On arrival in Milford Sound, take a Cook Strait and through the beautiful Queen short boat ride to Sandfly Point. An easy 5.5 km Charlotte Sound to Picton. On arrival, travel to (11 km return) walk alongside the cascading the delightful Nelson, our base for two nights. Arthur River and moody Lake Ada, on a well In the afternoon we stretch our legs along on a maintained track through ancient temperate section of the Centre of New Zealand Walkway. rainforest leading to Giant Gate Waterfall. Local Bed & Breakfast An expansive swing bridge provides perfect DAY 11 • ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK photo opportunities. Return at a leisurely pace (B) Paradise found! Abel Tasman National Park taking the time to enjoy this incredible forest. is a mosaic of golden coves and turquoise Your nature guide will provide an excellent lagoons sheltered by forested ranges to the opportunity to learn about the fascinating south. We board a small cruiser for a day of human heritage of the track. Walkers then exploration, with native wildlife a highlight of re-join the boat for the transfer back to our scenery. Milford. At Milford Sound board your cruise Local Bed & Breakfast down the fiord past Mitre Peak to the open DAY 12 • NELSON TO FRANZ JOSEF (B) sea. Seals and dolphins are often seen in the Today travel inland following the Buller River clear waters of the fiord. Lunch will be served gorge, emerging at Westport for a short walk aboard your cruise. The boat returns to on the coastal path to Cape Foulwind where Milford Wharf. Return to Te Anau travelling via we may see fur seals, sooty shearwaters and the Cleddeau Gorge, Homer Tunnel and the blue penguins. In the afternoon we reach lovely Eglinton Valley. Westland National Park, where ice meets DAY 16 • TE ANAU TO QUEENSTOWN (B) rainforest at the foot of the Fox and Franz Josef Leaving Fiordland National Park behind, we Glaciers. We base ourselves in laid-back Franz take a short journey via Kingston and Lake Josef township for ease of access to the slowly Wakatipu to Queenstown ‘Switzerland of the moving ‘river’ of ice. Southern Hemisphere’ and our base for the Country hotel next two nights. DAY 13 • FRANZ JOSEF TO WANAKA (B) City hotel, 2 nights Ensure you have your camera for our visit to DAY 17 • QUEENSTOWN (B) A day at leisure nearby Lake Matheson for a morning stroll and to relax or explore. Thrill-seekers may zip-line where, when conditions are right, perfectly from Bob’s Peak, get drenched on a Shotover
Pohutukawa
19 DAYS • North and South Island • From NZ$8850pp twinshare, land only
This Boutique Journey takes you through some of our favourite places and spaces in the North
and South Islands, discovering fantastic coastlines and immersing you in Māori Culture and history.
Explore the Geothermal wonders of the bubbling mud pools and exploding geysers of Rotorua
and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Abel Tasman National Park with opportunities to swim
in its dazzling turquoise lagoons.
Tour Inclusions
• All transport and the services of
DAY 1 • AUCKLAND Welcome to New Zealand!
You will receive a warm welcome on arrival
into Auckland International Airport. We meet
an excellent tour guide you from your flight and take you to your hotel
to freshen up. The rest of the day is yours to
• Accommodation based on two explore or rest at your leisure.
people sharing a double/twin City hotel
room (single supplement applies) DAY 2 • AUCKLAND TO COROMANDEL
• Entrance fees to places of interest PENINSULA (B) Our tour begins as we
leave Auckland and drive south to the Firth
included on your itinerary of Thames to stop at the Miranda Shorebird cultural concert and traditional hangi meal end Beehive, Wellington’s fondly nicknamed
• The services of local guides where Centre where you will learn about the amazing the day in style. parliament building, and a short ride up to the
referenced annual migrations of wrybills, godwits and DAY 6 • ROTORUA TO NAPIER (BD) Kelburn lookout in the iconic red cable car.
shorebirds that in summer travel the 10,000km Take in the crashing waters of Huka Falls Te Papa, the National Museum is an absolute
in their journey south from the Arctic Circle.
Culinary Inclusions
and the vastness of Lake Taupo, the largest must see during your time in the city.
Later, arrive in Tairua harbour, where pacific- freshwater lake in New Zealand, before heading City hotel
island style chalets are our home for the night. on to the Art Deco town of Napier. We’ll take a DAY 8 • WELLINGTON TO NELSON (B) We
• 24 meals included: Private hotel, 2 nights guided walking tour of the city, before enjoying board the Interislander Ferry to cross the
18 breakfasts (B) 1 lunch (L) DAY 3 • COROMANDEL PENINSULA (BD) an evening treat of dinner with a glass of wine CookStrait and travel through the beautiful
5 dinners (D) Take a walk to the marine reserve of Cathedral at Mission Estate Winery. QueenCharlotte Sound to Picton. On arrival
Cove, one of the most picturesque spots in the Private hotel we drive to Nelson, officially the sunniest town
• Enjoy a wine tasting and evening Coromandel. Enjoy the golden beaches – it’s
meal at Mission Estate, New DAY 7 • NAPIER TO WELLINGTON (B) We in New Zealand. Enjoy an easy walk on the
not every day you can dig your own spa pool to
continue south through the rolling hills of the Centre of New Zealand Walkway to enjoy the
Zealand’s oldest winery relax in as you can on Hot Water Beach!
There are plenty of relaxing spots to enjoy a Wairarapa to arrive in Wellington. Spend the stunning views of the area.
• Experience an authentic Māori afternoon sightseeing with a visit to the Local Bed & Breakfast
leisurely lunch under the shade of the local fruit
Hangi dinner and learn about trees. Tonight we share on the cooking duties
Māori culture enjoying a Kiwi Favourite – a BBQ dinner in the
• Tuck into a delicious home- garden of our accommodation.
cooked dinner with your hosts at DAY 4 • COROMANDEL PENINSULA TO
a rural property near Ashburton ROTORUA (B) Travel south on the Pacific Coast
Highway to Rotorua. Here we take a guided
walk of the Government Gardens, and take a
trip to Te Puia, an active geothermal site, and
the centre for indigenous arts and crafts and a
Kiwi conservation project.
City hotel, 2 nights
DAY 5 • ROTORUA (BD) We visit the
Waimangu Volcanic Valley, and take a guided
walking and cruising tour to learn more about
the history of this fascinating region. We also
travel to a local Marae (Māori meeting house)
to listen to some ancient legends and learn
about Māori lifestyle today. An evening Māori
DAY 9 • ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK (B) Europeans only 150 years ago. We head up DAY 14 • TE ANAU TO QUEENSTOWN (B) drop you off in smaller groups at three or four Paradise found! Abel Tasman’s shimmering over the Haast Pass along the river road, Leaving Fiordland National Park behind, we rural properties around Ashburton, where your waters and golden beaches make it a real high which took more than 40 years to complete, take a short journey via Kingston and Lake hosts will extend their hospitality to you to with point to any trip to New Zealand. We board travelling beside the icy river and deep into Wakatipu to Queenstown, ‘Switzerland of the a farm tour followed by a delicious home-cooked a small cruiser to explore, with opportunities Mt Aspiring National Park. The atmosphere Southern Hemisphere’ and our base for the dinner and a cosy night’s stay. for swimming and walking. Walkers can take lightens as we reach lovely Lake Wanaka, next two nights. Rural Homestay an easy 4-hour hike through the sub-tropical reflecting the mountain peaks that in winter City hotel, 2 nights DAY 18 • ASHBURTON TO CHRISTCHURCH bush to Torrent Bay and its beautiful turquoise offer superb skiing, and the pretty resort DAY 15 • QUEENSTOWN (B) A day at leisure (BD) After a hearty farmhouse breakfast we lagoon to re-join our cruiser for the trip home. town of Wanaka. to relax or explore. Thrill-seekers may zip-line re-assemble to head across the fertile Canterbury Local Bed & Breakfast Local Bed & Breakfast from Bob’s Peak, get drenched on a Shotover Plains and towards Christchurch. This most DAY 10 • NELSON TO FRANZ JOSEF (B) DAY 12 • WANAKA TO TE ANAU (B) This jet-boat ride or go white-water rafting. English of New Zealand cities suffered a Today follow the Buller River gorge, emerging morning there is time to relax, you may wish Those seeking a more relaxed option may succession of terrible earthquakes in 2010/11. at Westport for a short walk on the coastal path to take a jet boat ride up the Matukituki River choose to discover Lake Wakatipu with a cruise Christchurch is reinventing itself with typical to Cape Foulwind where we may see fur seals, or take the opportunity to enjoy one of New on the classic steamship TSS Earnslaw. kiwi spirit and exciting new sights including the sooty shearwaters and blue penguins. In the Zealand’s best half day walks – The Diamond DAY 16 • QUEENSTOWN TO MOUNT COOK cardboard cathedral and RE:Start Shopping Mall afternoon we reach Westland National Park, Lake and Rocky Mountain Trail. As we depart NATIONAL PARK (B) Today we drive north in repurposed shipping containers. A guided where ice meets rainforest at the foot of the Wanaka we stop to quench our thirst at the to historic Arrowtown – a quaint town away tour will help you understand the present and Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. We base ourselves much photographed Cardrona Pub before from the hustle and bustle with plenty of shops future hopes for the city. This is the final part of in laid-back Franz Josef township for ease of travelling around Lake Wakatipu and into and historic remains from the Gold Rush days. our journey together so tonight we relax over a access to the slowly moving ‘river’ of ice. Te Anau, gateway to the magnificent Fiordland Then through the rugged Kawarau Gorge, past farewell dinner that showcases the best of New Country hotel National Park. pretty Lake Dunstan and across the distinctive Zealand food and wine. DAY 11 • FRANZ JOSEF TO WANAKA (B) Country hotel, 2 nights Central Otago countryside and the Lindis Pass City hotel Ensure you have your camera for our visit to DAY 13 • TE ANAU TO MILFORD SOUND (BL) overnighting in Twizel. DAY 19 • DEPART CHRISTCHURCH (B) nearby Lake Matheson for a morning stroll and We take the coach into Milford Sound. A Country hotel If you are leaving New Zealand today, we transfer where, when conditions are right, perfectly beautifully scenic route, with plenty of DAY 17 • MOUNT COOK TO ASHBURTON you to Christchurch Airport for your flight mirrors beautiful Mount Cook in its still waters. opportunities for photo taking. Enjoy a (BD) A beautiful drive along Lake Pukaki to home after you have enjoyed your final kiwi This land is the heart of Te Wahipounamu morning walk in the National Park with an The Hermitage, our starting point for a choice breakfast. Alternatively we can extend your stay – the place of the greenstone – explored experienced nature guide followed by lunch of easy walks along the Hooker Valley trail for a in Christchurch for a few days or arrange onward by generations of Maori but penetrated by and a cruise on the majestic Milford Sound. close up of the majestic Mount Cook. Later, we independent touring by car or TranzAlpine train.
Kowhai
17 DAYS • North and South Island • From NZ$7990pp twinshare, land only
Explore the wide sandy beaches of the Coromandel coastline; dip your toes in the azure blue
waters of Abel Tasman National Park after a guided hike through the sub-tropical bush, and
journey deep into Fiordland National Park to cruise on Milford Sound – one of our all-time
‘must do’ experiences on a trip to the South Island.
Tour Inclusions
• All transport and the services of
DAY 1 • AUCKLAND Haere mai – welcome!
Arrive into Auckland and spend the afternoon
and evening getting to know the ‘City of Sails’
an excellent tour guide and your fellow travellers.
City hotel
• Accommodation based on two DAY 2 • AUCKLAND TO BAY OF ISLANDS (B)
people sharing a double/twin Travel up Northland’s west coast skirting
room (single supplement applies) Kaipara Harbour and following the Kaihu River
• Entrance fees to places of interest to the Kai Iwi Lakes and the primeval forest
of Waipoua, where we take a guided walk
included on your itinerary through the forest and meet the mighty Tane
• The services of local guides where Mahuta – the largest kauri tree in the world.
referenced In the afternoon we head east to tranquil where Māori chiefs first signed their agreement trip to Te Puia, an active geothermal site, and the
Paihia, the ‘jewel of the Bay of Islands’. with the British settlers: the Treaty of Waitangi. centre for indigenous arts and crafts and a Kiwi
Local Bed & Breakfast, 2 nights Heading south we make a stop at the Miranda conservation project.
Culinary Inclusions
• 20 meals included:
DAY 3 • BAY OF ISLANDS (B) We start the day
in Russell with a tour led by a resident historian
to learn about this town that was the country’s
Shorebird Centre to learn about the amazing
annual migrations of birds that travel south
from the Arctic Circle for the summer months.
City hotel, 2 nights
DAY 7 • ROTORUA (BD) This morning we
visit the Waimangu Volcanic Valley – site of
16 breakfasts (B) 1 lunch (L) first sea port and Its first European settlement. Private hotel, 2 nights the eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886, which
3 dinners (D) Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the DAY 5 • EXPLORE THE COROMANDEL destroyed the world-famous ‘Pink & White’ silica
area or take a cruise with an opportunity to PENINSULA (BD) White cliffs and golden terraces and devastated local Maori villages.
• Enjoy dinner and wine at Mission swim with dolphins (weather permitting!). beaches, inviting turquoise waters and green This catastrophic event changed the landscape
Estate Winery in Napier DAY 4 • BAY OF ISLANDS TO COROMANDEL forests are the colours of the Coromandel, forever and created the valley we now walk
• Taste true tradition at a Māori PENINSULA (B) This morning we visit the with scarlet highlights courtesy of the flowers through, past boiling craters and jewel-coloured
Hangi Meal in Rotorua beautiful site of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, of Pohutukawa trees in summer, making this steaming lakes.
one of our favourite regions. Rightly famous Take a cruise across Lake Rotomahana to the site
is Hot Water Beach, where warm springs of the old silica terraces, hear the story of Guide
bubble up through the sand, and when the Sophia and see the new terraces of silica slowly
tide is right you can dig out your very own forming. This afternoon take time out to relax at
‘spa’ pool for a wallow. Our recommendation our hotel before travelling to a local Marae
for lunch is under the fruit trees at Colenso (Maori Village). Maori legend has it that Maui-
Café. In the afternoon, it is well worth putting tikitiki-a-Taranga used a magical jawbone as
on your boots to walk to Cathedral Cove. This a hook to fish North Island from the depths of
marine reserve is accessible only on foot or the sea and that Hawke’s Bay is that jawbone.
by boat: our efforts are rewarded with one Experience a formal welcome (powhiri) including
of the most photogenic beaches in NZ, with the hongi – that is sharing breath. Delve into
water-worn rock formations sparkling against Maori life, both past and contemporary. Listen
the blue-green of the Pacific. Tonight we to their fascinating reality – how things are
share on the cooking duties enjoying a Kiwi and what is important to their family, their
Favourite – a BBQ dinner in the garden of our connection to their land, the importance of
accommodation. whakapapa (lineage) and life amongst their
DAY 6 • COROMANDEL PENINSULA TO people. The iwi (tribes) are equal partners
ROTORUA (B) Travel south on the Pacific Coast in caring for New Zealand’s natural beauty..
Highway to Rotorua. Here we take a guided Finally this evening enjoy a powerful cultural
walk of the Government Gardens, and take a performance, storytelling & Hangi (feasting).DAY 8 • ROTORUA TO NAPIER (BD) Take in spirit of its diverse peoples, its unique wildlife, Park, where ice meets rainforest at the foot Lake and Rocky Mountain Trail. As we depart the crashing waters of Huka Falls on our way to landscapes and its distinctive popular culture. of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. We base Wanaka we stop to quench our thirst at the Lake Taupo, the largest freshwater lake in New City hotel ourselves in laid-back Franz Josef township for much photographed Cardrona Pub before Zealand, surrounded by the mighty peaks of DAY 10 • WELLINGTON TO NELSON (B) ease of access to the slowly moving ‘river’ of ice. travelling around Lake Wakatipu and into Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. Take time Board the Interislander Ferry to travel across Country hotel Te Anau, gateway to the magnificent Fiordland toexplore the bustling township of Taupo. Later the Cook Straight to arrive in Picton This DAY 13 • FRANZ JOSEF TO WANAKA (B) National Park. arrive in Napier and take a guided walking tour afternoon we drive to the delightful town of Ensure you have your camera for our visit to Country hotel, 2 nights of this fabulous Art Deco city. The area is also Nelson to walk a stroll along a section of the nearby Lake Matheson for a morning stroll and DAY 15 • TE ANAU TO MILFORD SOUND well loved for its fabulous wines so this evening Centre of New Zealand Walkway that winds where, when conditions are right, perfectly (BL) We take the coach into Milford Sound. we enjoy a tour and dinner at the Mission alongside the Matai River. mirrors beautiful Mount Cook in its still waters. A beautifully scenic route, with plenty of Estate Winery. Local Bed & Breakfast This land is the heart of Te Wahipounamu opportunities for photo taking. Enjoy a Private hotel DAY 11 • ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK – the place of the greenstone – explored morning walk in the National Park with an DAY 9 • NAPIER TO WELLINGTON (B) This (B) Paradise found! Abel Tasman National by generations of Maori but penetrated by experienced nature guide followed by lunch morning we travel through vineyards and Park’s golden beaches, glittering waters and Europeans only 150 years ago. We head and a cruise on Milford Sound. orchards, through the bush-clad ranges of world famous coastal track are a highlight of up over the Haast Pass along the river road, DAY 16 • TE ANAU TO QUEENSTOWN (B) the Wairarapa, which has an off-the-beaten- any trip to New Zealand. We board a small which took more than 40 years to complete, Leaving Fiordland National Park behind, we track charm that belies its proximity to New cruiser to spend the day exploring the region. travelling beside the icy river and deep into take a short journey via Kingston and Lake Zealand’s capital, and into Wellington. Full Choose to relax on board or take an easy Mt Aspiring National Park. The atmosphere Wakatipu to Queenstown ‘ Switzerland of the of artists, writers and film-makers – the 4-hour hike through the coastal forest to lightens as we reach lovely Lake Wanaka, Southern Hemisphere’ and our base for the most famous of whom is Sir Peter Jackson Torrent Bay and its beautiful tidal lagoon to reflecting the mountain peaks that in winter next two nights. – Wellington has a lively arts scene and café rejoin the cruiser for the trip home. offer superb skiing, and the pretty resort town City hotel culture. We take the cable car up to the Local Bed & Breakfast of Wanaka. DAY 17 • DEPART QUEENSTOWN (B) Kelburn lookout before walking back down DAY 12 • NELSON TO FRANZ JOSEF (B) Local Bed & Breakfast If you have time before your departure, through the Botanic Gardens, enjoying tea Today travel inland following the Buller River DAY 14 • WANAKA TO TE ANAU (B) This you may choose to enjoy some time in in the Lady Norwood Rose Garden. A visit to gorge, emerging at Westport for a short walk morning there is time to relax, you may wish Queenstown today, picking up last minute Te Papa, one of the most exciting museums on the coastal path to Cape Foulwind where to take a jet boat ride up the Matukituki River souvenirs or perhaps squeezing in a skydive (!) in the world, is highly recommended for New we may see fur seals, sooty shearwaters and or take the opportunity to enjoy one of New before we transfer you to the airport ready for Zealand insights – the shaping of its land, the blue penguins. Then on to Westland National Zealand’s best half day walks – The Diamond your flight home.
Rimu
15 DAYS • North and South Island • From NZ$7550pp twinshare, land only
Join us for this Boutique Journey to explore the highlights of the North and South Islands.
Unleash your adventurous spirit in the adrenaline capital of Queenstown, cruise Milford Sound and
make the most of the abundance of walking opportunities the country has to offer as you travel
through New Zealand’s fabulous landscapes.
Tour Inclusions
• All transport and the services of
DAY 1 • AUCKLAND Haere mai – welcome!
Arrive into Auckland and spend the afternoon
and evening getting to know the ‘City of Sails’
an excellent tour guide and your fellow travellers.
City hotel
• Accommodation based on two DAY 2 • AUCKLAND TO COROMANDEL
people sharing a double/twin PENINSULA (B) From Auckland we drive
room (single supplement applies) south through the lush farmlands of the
• Entrance fees to places of interest Waikato to the Firth of Thames where we meet
included on your itinerary Keith Woodley and his enthusiastic team at
the Miranda Shorebird Centre. Here we learn
• The services of local guides where about the amazing annual migrations of Bar- DAY 4 • COROMANDEL PENINSULA TO forests and plant collections of the Botanic
referenced tailed Godwits and Wrybills, whirling flocks of ROTORUA (B) Travel south on the Pacific Coast Gardens. We also recommend a visit to Te Papa,
thousands of shorebirds and the rare geology Highway to Rotorua. Here we take a guided New Zealand’s National Museum.
Culinary Inclusions
of shell bank cheniers. walk of the Government Gardens, and take a City hotel
Private hotel, 2 nights trip to Te Puia, an active geothermal site, and the DAY 8 • WELLINGTON TO NELSON (B)
DAY 3 • EXPLORE THE COROMANDEL centre for indigenous arts and crafts and a Kiwi Today take the Interislander Ferry across the
• 18 meals included: PENINSULA (BD) Dig your own spa pool at conservation project. Cook Strait to Picton. From there it’s a two hour
14 breakfasts (B) 1 lunch (L) Hot Water Beach, and take a walk to Cathedral City hotel, 2 nights drive to the delightful town of Nelson, officially
3 dinners (D) Cove with its water-worn rock formations DAY 5 • ROTORUA (BD) This morning take the sunniest place in New Zealand and our
• Enjoy dinner and wine at Mission sparkling against the blue-green of the Pacific. an easy walking tour through the Waimangu base for two nights. In the afternoon we
Later, why not relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch Volcanic Valley, to discover more about the stretch our legs on a path that follows the
Estate Winery in Napier
at a café. Tonight we share on the cooking eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886 Matai River on a section of the Centre of New
• Taste true tradition at a Māori duties enjoying a Kiwi Favourite – a BBQ dinner that destroyed the famous ‘Pink and White’ Zealand Walkway.
Hangi Meal in Rotorua in the garden of our accommodation. silica terraces. A Māori cultural experience and Local Bed & Breakfast
traditional hangi meal are the perfect way to DAY 9 • ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK (B)
end the day. A highlight of the tour is a trip to Abel Tasman
DAY 6 • ROTORUA TO NAPIER (BD) Journey National Park with its golden coves and
south, with a stop at magnificent Huka turquoise lagoons sheltered by forested ranges
Falls before continuing to Lake Taupo. Weather to the south. We board a small cruiser for a
permitting we will see the peaks of Ruapehu, day of exploration, with opportunities for
Ngaruhoe and Tongariro across the lake. swimming and walking.
Later we arrive in Napier for a guided walking Local Bed & Breakfast
tour of this colourful Art Deco city and a visit to DAY 10 • NELSON TO FRANZ JOSEF (B)
some of the most iconic sights. The area is also Today travel inland following the Buller River
well loved for its fabulous wines so this evening, gorge, emerging at Westport for a short walk
our treat is a dinner with a glass of wine at the on the coastal path to Cape Foulwind where we
Mission Estate Winery. may see fur seals, sooty shearwaters and blue
Private hotel penguins. In the afternoon we reach Westland
DAY 7 NAPIER TO WELLINGTON (B) This National Park, where ice meets rainforest at
morning we travel south through the Wairarapa, the foot of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers.
over the Rimutaka Hill to arrive in the country’s We base ourselves in laid-back Franz Josef
capital city Wellington. Enjoy a ride up to the township for ease of access to the slowly
Kelburn lookout in the cable car and take a moving ‘river’ of ice.
gentle stroll back down through the native Country hotelDAY 11 • FRANZ JOSEF TO WANAKA (B) DAY 13 • TE ANAU TO MILFORD SOUND Ensure you have your camera for our visit to (BL) We take the coach into Milford Sound. nearby Lake Matheson for a morning stroll and A beautifully scenic route, with plenty of where, when conditions are right, perfectly opportunities for photo taking. Enjoy a morning mirrors beautiful Mount Cook in its still waters. walk in the National Park with an experienced We head up over the Haast Pass along the nature guide followed by lunch a cruise on river road, which took more than 40 years to Milford Sound. complete, travelling beside the icy river and DAY 14 • TE ANAU TO QUEENSTOWN (B) deep into Mt Aspiring National Park. The Leaving Fiordland National Park behind, we take atmosphere lightens as we reach lovely Lake a short journey via Kingston and Lake Wakatipu Wanaka and the pretty resort town of Wanaka. to Queenstown, ‘Switzerland of the Southern Local Bed & Breakfast Hemisphere and’ our base for the next two DAY 12 • WANAKA TO TE ANAU (B) This nights. morning there is time to relax, you may wish City hotel to take a jet boat ride up the Matukituki River DAY 15 • DEPART QUEENSTOWN (B) or take the opportunity to enjoy one of New If you have time before your departure, you Zealand’s best half day walks – The Diamond may choose to enjoy some time in Queenstown Lake and Rocky Mountain Trail. As we depart today, picking up last minute souvenirs or Wanaka we stop to quench our thirst at the perhaps squeezing in a skydive (!) before we much photographed Cardrona Pub before transfer you to the airport ready for your travelling around Lake Wakatipu and into flight home. Te Anau, gateway to the magnificent Fiordland National Park. Country hotel, 2 nights
Mount Cook Lily
13 DAYS • South Island • From NZ$6090pp twinshare, land only
This tour squeezes more jaw-dropping scenery into 13 days than any other! The South Island
has an unparalleled variety of landscapes from the majestic Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, to
the stunning views across Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown, to the Remarkable Mountains.
Tour Inclusions
• All transport and the services of
DAY 1 • WELLINGTON Welcome! Have a
lazy day finding your bearings, wander along
Oriental Parade and around the bays, or
explore Cuba Street, ‘New Zealand’s Coolest
an excellent tour guide Street’ with its eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes
• Accommodation based on two and restaurants. A visit to Te Papa, the National
people sharing a double/twin Museum is a must!
room (single supplement applies) City hotel
DAY 2 • WELLINGTON TO NELSON (B)
• Entrance fees to places of interest We take the Interislander Ferry through the
included on your itinerary Marlborough and Queen Charlotte Sounds
• The services of local guides where to Picton. Here we begin our South Island
referenced journey with a drive to the delightful town
of Nelson. Take a walk on the Centre of New
Zealand Walkway to take in the stunning views
Culinary Inclusions
• 15 meals included:
of the surrounding landscapes. The rest of
the afternoon and evening are free for you to
relax and explore this sunny town with its easy
DAY 4 • NELSON TO FRANZ JOSEF (B) Today
travel inland following the Buller River gorge,
emerging at Westport for a short walk on
and where, when conditions are right, perfectly
mirrors beautiful Mount Cook in its still waters.
We head up over the Haast Pass along the river
lifestyle and vibrant arts scene. the coastal path to Cape Foulwind where we road, which took more than 40 years to complete,
12 breakfasts (B) 1 lunch (L) may see fur seals, sooty shearwaters and blue
Local Bed & Breakfast travelling beside the icy river and deep into Mt
2 dinners (D) DAY 3 • ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK (B) penguins. In the afternoon we reach Westland Aspiring National Park. The atmosphere lightens
• Experience true kiwi hospitality The lush coastal forests, sparkling azure waters National Park, where ice meets rainforest at as we reach lovely Lake Wanaka and the pretty
on a rural property in Ashburton and golden beaches make this world famous the foot of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. resort town of Wanaka.
coastal track a highlight. Board a small cruiser We base ourselves in laid-back Franz Josef Local Bed & Breakfast
• Spend your final evening for a day of exploration, with opportunities for township for ease of access to the slowly DAY 6 • WANAKA TO TE ANAU (B) This morning
together with a meal at one swimming and walking. We suggest landing at moving ‘river’ of ice. there is time to relax, you may wish to take a jet
of Christchurch’s excellent Bark Bay for an easy 4-hour hike to Torrent Bay Country hotel boat ride up the Matukituki River or take the
restaurants and its beautiful tidal lagoon where we re-join DAY 5 • FRANZ JOSEF TO WANAKA (B) opportunity to enjoy one of New Zealand’s best
our cruiser for the trip home. Ensure you have your camera for our visit to half day walks – The Diamond Lake and Rocky
Local Bed & Breakfast nearby Lake Matheson for a morning stroll Mountain Trail. As we depart Wanaka we stop
to quench our thirst at the much photographed
Cardrona Pub before travelling around Lake
Wakatipu and into Te Anau, gateway to the
magnificent Fiordland National Park.
Country hotel, 2 nights
DAY 7 • TE ANAU TO MILFORD SOUND (BL)
We take the coach into Milford Sound. A
beautifully scenic route, with plenty of
opportunities for photo taking. Enjoy a morning
walk in the National Park with an experienced
nature guide followed by a cruise on Milford
Sound.
DAY 8 • TE ANAU TO QUEENSTOWN (B) Leaving
Fiordland National Park behind, we take a short
journey via Kingston and Lake Wakatipu to
Queenstown, ‘Switzerland of the Southern
Hemisphere’ and our base for the next two nights.
City hotel, 2 nightsDAY 9 • QUEENSTOWN (B) A day at leisure DAY 12 • ASHBURTON TO CHRISTCHURCH to relax or explore. Thrill-seekers may zip-line (BD) Christchurch was shaken to its core by the from Bob’s Peak, get drenched on a Shotover succession of earthquakes at the turn of jet-boat ride or go white-water rafting. Those 2010/11. Many historic buildings were seeking a more relaxed option may choose to damaged, but the river Avon and its punts, discover Lake Wakatipu with a cruise on the Hagley Park, and the Botanic Gardens are all as classic steamship TSS Earnslaw up to Walter beautiful as ever, and during our visit we will Peak Station. embrace the city’s past, present and future. DAY 10 • QUEENSTOWN TO MOUNT COOK This is the final part of our journey together so NATIONAL PARK (B) Today we drive north via tonight we relax together over a farewell dinner Arrowtown, a historical goldmining settlement that showcases the best of New Zealand food and on to Twizel. We overnight near Mount and wine. Cook home to the country’s highest peak. City hotel Country hotel DAY 13 • DEPART CHRISTCHURCH (B) If you DAY 11 • MOUNT COOK TO ASHBURTON are leaving New Zealand today, we transfer (BD) A beautiful drive along Lake Pukaki to you to Christchurch Airport for your flight The Hermitage, our starting point for a choice home after you have enjoyed your final kiwi of easy walks along the Hooker Valley trail for breakfast. Alternatively we can extend your a close up of the majestic Mount Cook. Later, stay in Christchurch for a few days or arrange we drop you off in smaller groups at three or onward independent touring by car or four rural properties around Ashburton, where TranzAlpine train. your hosts will extend their hospitality to you to with a farm tour followed by a delicious This Boutique Journey can be combined with home-cooked dinner and a cosy night’s stay. an Independent tailor-made vacation on the Rural Homestay North Island.
Koromiko
10 DAYS • North Island • From NZ$5590pp twinshare, land only
This tour takes in the stunning sights of North Island on a journey past ancient kauri trees to
the sparkling Pacific waters of the Bay of Islands. Further south you’ll visit the Art Deco town of
Napier and enjoy the wonderful wines of the Hawke’s Bay region before arriving in Wellington,
‘The coolest little capital in the world’.
Tour Inclusions
• All transport and the services of an excellent tour
Culinary Inclusions
• 12 meals included:
guide 9 breakfasts (B) 3 dinners (D)
• Accommodation based on two people sharing a • Enjoy a wine tasting and evening meal
double/twin room (single supplement applies) at Mission Estate, New Zealand’s oldest
• Entrance fees to places of interest included on winery
your itinerary • Experience an authentic Māori Hangi
• The services of local guides where referenced dinner and learn about Māori Culture
DAY 1 • AUCKLAND Haere mai – welcome!
We meet you from your flight and take you
straight to your hotel in the heart of Auckland
city centre.
City hotel
DAY 2 • AUCKLAND TO BAY OF ISLANDS (B)
Travel up Northland’s west coast skirting Kaipara
Harbour and following the Kaihu River to the Kai
Iwi Lakes and the primeval forest of Waipoua,
where we take a guided walk through the forest
and meet the mighty Tane Mahuta – the largest
kauri tree in the world. In the afternoon we head
east to tranquil Paihia, the ‘jewel of the Bay of
Islands’.
Local Bed & Breakfast, 2 nights
DAY 3 • BAY OF ISLANDS (B) We start the day
in Russell with a tour led by a resident historian
to learn about this town that was the country’s
first sea port and Its first European settlement.
Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the
area or take a cruise with an opportunity to
swim with dolphins (weather permitting!).
DAY 4 • BAY OF ISLANDS TO COROMANDEL
PENINSULA (B) This morning we visit the
beautiful site of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds,
where Māori chiefs first signed their agreement
with the British settlers: the Treaty of Waitangi.
Heading south we make a stop at the Miranda
Shorebird Centre to learn about the amazing
annual migrations of birds that travel south from
the Arctic Circle for the summer months.
Private hotel, 2 nights
DAY 5 • EXPLORE THE COROMANDEL
PENINSULA (BD) The white sandy beaches and
16 laid back vacation vibe make the Coromandela relaxing pace to spend the day. Take time DAY 7 • ROTORUA (BD) This morning we area is also well loved for its fabulous wines so in the world, is highly recommended for New to relax and dig out your very own ‘spa’ pool walk through the fascinating Waimangu this evening we enjoy a tour and dinner at the Zealand insights – the shaping of its land, the at Hot Water Beach. In the afternoon, we take Volcanic Valley, the world’s youngest Mission Estate Winery. spirit of its diverse peoples, its unique wildlife, a walk to Cathedral Cove with its naturally geothermal system, home to steaming Private hotel landscapes and its distinctive popular culture. formed archway, sparkling bluegreen waters volcanic craters and dramatic thermal activity. DAY 9 • NAPIER TO WELLINGTON (B) This City hotel and sandy beaches that make it one of the In the evening we experience an authentic morning we travel through vineyards and DAY 10 • DEPART WELLINGTON (B) If you most photographed beaches in New Zealand. cultural experience, and try our hands at Mau orchards, through the bush-clad ranges of are leaving New Zealand today, we transfer Tonight we share on the cooking duties Rakau (stick fighting) or Raranga (weaving) the Wairarapa, which has an off-the-beaten- you to Wellington Airport for your flight home enjoying a Kiwi Favourite – a BBQ dinner in the before indulging in a traditional hangi meal to track charm that belies its proximity to New after you have enjoyed your final kiwi breakfast. garden of our accommodation. end the night in style! Zealand’s capital, and into Wellington. Full Alternatively we can extend your stay in DAY 6 • COROMANDEL PENINSULA TO DAY 8 • ROTORUA TO NAPIER (BD) Take in of artists, writers and film-makers – the Wellington for a few days or arrange onward ROTORUA (B) Travel south on the Pacific Coast the crashing waters of Huka Falls on our way most famous of whom is Sir Peter Jackson independent touring by car. Either way, we say Highway to Rotorua. Here we take a guided to Lake Taupo, the largest freshwater lake – Wellington has a lively arts scene and café farewell, and wave you off home with amazing walk of the Government Gardens, and take a in New Zealand, surrounded by the mighty culture. We take the cable car up to the memories of your time in New Zealand. trip to Te Puia, an active geothermal site, and peaks of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. Kelburn lookout before walking back down the centre for indigenous arts and crafts and a Take time to explore the bustling township of through the Botanic Gardens, enjoying tea This Boutique Journey can be combined with Kiwi conservation project. Taupo. Later arrive in Napier and take a guided in the Lady Norwood Rose Garden. A visit to an Independent tailor-made vacation on the City hotel, 2 nights walking tour of this fabulous Art Deco city. The Te Papa, one of the most exciting museums South Island.
1
Waipoua Hikurangi
Forest
Whangarei
North Island
Dargaville
12
Little
Ruwai Maungaturoto Barrier
Matakohe Kaiwaka Island Port Fitzroy
Wellsford Great Barrier
Warkworth
Cape
1 Colville
Hauraki
North Cape
BAY OF ISLANDS/NORTHLAND
Gulf
Cape Reinga A coastline of golden beaches and rocky outcrops
Takapuna Waiheke Coromande
circles the stunningly beautifulIsland
Bay of Islands.
Te Hapua
Auckland
Scattered with 150 islands, this bay with
Manukau
25
its blue-
Coromandel
Whitian
Te Kao Peninsulaas Tairu
green ocean and abundant wildlife, is renowned
Ninety Papakura
Mile Beach a maritime adventure playground. Steeped in a rich
Thames
25A
Pukekohe
1
and colourful history, the Bay ofPokeno
Islands is known 26
as Wha
Awanui Bay of
the birthplace of our nation.
Meremere
2
25
Kaeo Islands Paeroa
Kaitaia Waih
Kerikeri Cape Brett
27
Te Aroha 2 M
1
Paihia Russell Huntly
Hokianga Opua Kawakawa Morrinsville
Harbour Hamilton Matamata
Opononi Kaikohe 1 Raglan
Waipoua Hikurangi Cambridge
29
AUCKLAND Forest Te Awamutu Tirau
Regularly named as one of the best life-style cities in the Whangarei Kawhia Kihikihi Putarur 5
world, Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city with a vibrant Otorohanga
3
Tokoroa
cosmopolitan population. Auckland offers a busy nightlife, Dargaville Waitomo Caves R
world-class restaurants, a stunning waterfront and diverse
12
Little Te Kuiti 1
Ruwai Maungaturoto Barrier A
neighbourhoods to explore. Facing the sparkling waters of Matakohe Kaiwaka Island Port Fitzroy Mangakino Repo
the Manukau and Waitemata Harbours, New Zealand’s largest Great Barrier Island
COROMANDEL PENINSULA 3
Wellsford Awakino
This beautiful
4
peninsula, on the eastern side
city is fondly known as the City of Sails. Mokau
Warkworth
Cape
Ongarue
of the North Island, is a favourite vacation T
1
Hauraki
Colville New Ohura
destination for New Zealanders. For nature
Plymouth
1
Gulf lovers, theWaitara
white sandy beaches and lush
Taumarunui Turangi
green native forests of the Coromandel bring Village
47
Takapuna Waiheke Coromandel Inglewood Whakapapa
Auckland
Island 25 Whitianga travellers back time and time again.
National Park Not Mt Tongariro
Coromandel Cape Mt Taranaki/Egmont Mt Ngauruho
Manukau Egmont surprisingly, with 400kmOhakune
of coastline, the ocean
Mt Ruapehu 2
Peninsula Tairua/Pauanui
Main city or tourist spot Papakura Stratford
is a destination in itself. 1
Opunake 3
Raetihi Waiouru
25A
Pukekohe Thames
Pokeno Whangamata Hawera
Town or city Rail lines 2
26
4
Meremere Paeroa
25
Patea Taihape
Waihi Waverley
WAIKATO Capital Main Road 1
27
Bay of Plenty Mangaweka
Te Aroha 2 Matakana
Just south of Auckland lies the fertile Waikato Valley - a land of Huntly Island Whanganui Hunterville
1 East Cape
73 Morrinsville Mt.Maunganui White Island
green hills and lush pastures, small rural towns; wild West Coast State Highway Hamilton
Road Matamata Tauranga Hicks3 BayMarton Takapau
Te Araroa
beaches, limestone caves and Hobbits! Raglan 29 Te Puke Te Kaha Bulls D
Cambridge Feilding
Te Awamutu Tirau 2
Palmerston Tikitiki
3
Woodvill
Kawhia Cape Farewell
3
Kihikihi Putaruru 5
30
Whakatane
Opotiki
North35 Pahiatua
Otorohanga Kawerau 1
Konini
Collingwood Tokoroa
Waitomo Caves Rotorua LevinTokomaru Bay
Te Kuiti 1
2 2
Eketahuna
Takaka Atiamuri Waikanae
Mangakino Tasman Marlborough Tolaga Bay Masterton
3 Kaiteriteri Reporoa Bay Murupara
Sounds Paraparaumu
Co
4 Motueka 5 Matawai
Porirua
Awakino Upper Hutt
Mokau Tasman
Karamea Ongarue
Taupo Havelock ok
Gisborne Lower
Hutt
Martinborough
New Ohura
Nelson Picton Wellington
Str
Plymouth
1
ROTORUA REGION Waitara Taumarunui
47
Turangi 5
Birthplace of New Zealand tourism in the 1800’s, Whakapapa Village Tarawera
ait
Granity
Rotorua continues to fascinate as an adventure,
Inglewood
National Park OwenMtRiver
Murchison Tongariro Blenheim Wairoa
Cape Westport
Mt Taranaki/Egmont Mt Ngauruhoe
2
Cape Palliser
Māori culture and spa destination. Historically known Egmont pe Foulwind Ohakune Mt Ruapehu 2797m Cape Campbell
Stratford Inangahua Hawke Bay
as the Nature’s Spa of the South Pacific, the healing Opunake
1
3
Raetihi Waiouru Eskdale
waters of hot springs, therapeutic massages and
mud wraps are offered to rejuvenate the spirit. arrytown
Hawera
Reefton
Maruia
4
Napier
Patea Taihape
Waverley
Ikamatua
Blackball Mangaweka
Springs Junction Hastings Main city or tourist spot
mouthWhanganui Hunterville
1
Kaikoura
Waipawa
Moana Town or city Rail lines
N ction 3 Marton Takapau 2 Waipukurau
Lewis Pass Waiau
Dannevirke
a Bulls Capital Main Road
Feilding
Culverden
W E
Palmerston
Otira 3
Woodville Porangahau
73
Cape Farewell North
Arthur’s Pass Pahiatua
State Highway Road
1
Konini
Waipara
Collingwood Levin Cape
S Eketahuna Turnagain
Takaka Oxford 2
Waikanae Rangiora
Kaiteriteri Tasman Marlborough Masterton
Paraparaumu Kaiapoi
LAKE TAUPO Bay Sounds
Co
Motueka Porirua
Lake Taupo is centrally located in the middle of the North Island. Popular with both Upper Hutt
Tasman Methven
ok
Karamea
international and New Zealand visitors alike, Taupo offers somethingHavelock
for all interests. Lower
Hutt
Martinborough
Lake Taupo is New Zealand’s largest lake and extendsNelson
over an area of 250 square miles –
Picton Wellington
Str
similar in size to Singapore. It was formed by an enormous volcanic eruption nearly
2000 years ago. View evidence of Taupo’s fiery birth with a visit to Craters of the Moon with Ashburton
ait
Granity
its steaming craters, boiling hot mud pools and
Murchison Owenvolcanic Blenheim
Riverlandscapes. Certain spots in Lake
F i li G ldi
Taupo andWestport
along the Waikato River also feature warm, geothermal water currents – Cape Campbell
pe Foulwind
Cape Palliser
perfect for a spot of swimming.Inangahua
arrytown
Reefton
Maruia
WELLINGTON REGION HAWKE’S BAY
Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city is set between bush-clad hills and the splendid Situated on the east coast of the North Island,
Ikamatua
Blackball Springs Junctionnatural harbour. On a clear day, the harbour sparkles but the arrival of southern storms can the sunny Hawke’s Bay region is a favourite
mouth Kaikoura
bring amazingly dramatic seas and the city is proud of its ‘Windy Wellington’ nickname. destination for foodN and wine lovers. Known
ction Moana Perched on the hills above the harbour are Victorian wooden houses intermingled with for its artisan food producers and local farmers’
Lewis Pass modern
Waiauhigh rise buildings reminiscent of San Francisco. Recently named “the coolest little markets inWNapier, HastingsE and Havelock
a capital in the world” by Lonely Planet, Wellington offers something for all interests. North, the area has a rural charm, with a mix of
Otira Culverden
steep hills and plains. The twin cities of Napier
Arthur’s Pass and Hastings are theS main population centres.
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