Magnificent New Zealand 2012/2013

New Zealand Group Holiday - 29-day Escorted Tour

The power of this remarkable land, with its dramatic landscapes and cultural extremes, will absorb you completely. Spellbinding and deeply moving, this is an epic adventure; the journey of a lifetime.

Tour highlights
• Absorbing the culture in Singapore and the key cities of New Zealand
• Penguin-spotting on a cruise around the Otago Peninsula
• Cruising Milford Sound, among waterfalls, wildlife and majestic peaks
• Crossing Lake Wakatipu by vintage steamer for dinner at Walter Peak Station
• Standing in awe of the Franz Josef Glacier
• Spying for rare Hector’s dolphins on Queen Charlotte Sound
• Meeting Maori elders at Wairakei Terraces
• Feeling the inner power of the earth at Rotorua’s Te Puia Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley
• Cruising the Bay of Islands to Cape Brett’s dramatic landscape
• Gazing across the City of Sails over dinner, 328 metres up in Auckland’s Sky Tower

Extend your Holiday
You’ve seen and done so much on this wonderful tour of New Zealand, why not take a couple of days to relax and let everything sink in before you head back to reality? We’ve arranged two options to tempt you with; a three-night stay at a luxury resort on the secluded Karikari Peninsula, to the north of New Zealand, or a two-night stopover at the world-class Sentosa Island Resort and Spa on Sentosa Island, in the South China Sea, off the coast of Singapore.

Tour itinerary

Day 1 Depart Heathrow
In the executive lounge, your Tour Manager will put you at ease and introduce you to your fellow travellers.
Meals: In-flight.

Day 2 Singapore
You’ll be transferred from the airport to your hotel, where we’ve arranged an early check-in. You’re free to explore, before joining your Tour Manager for welcome drinks in the evening.
Meals: In-flight.
Hotel: Swissôtel The Stamford.

Day 3 Singapore
This morning’s tour of Singapore contrasts the ancient with the modern. You’ll discover the city’s ‘colonial heart’ and visit the oldest and most important monument; the Thian Hock Keng Temple, before moving on to Marina Bay and Merlion Park. The National Orchid Garden will soothe you with its tranquillity, and enchant you with over 1,000 varieties and over 2,000 hybrids, contrasting with the vibrant spice scented markets of Chinatown and Little India. This afternoon is free for you to wander the bustling streets and absorb the atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Swissôtel The Stamford.

Day 4 Depart Singapore
Today you can shop, sightsee and explore at your own pace, and we’ve arranged a late check-out before this evening’s flight.
Meals: Breakfast, In-flight.

Day 5 Arrive Christchurch
After arriving in Christchurch this morning you will have chance to see the city as well as relax in your hotel.
Meals: In-flight.
Hotel: Hotel to be confirmed’

Day 6 Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
A 3 hour scenic drive takes you to stunning Lake Tekapo. Surrounded by the mountains of the Southern Alps, the region is a popular star gazing spot. The unforgettable night sky reveals why Tekapo has an international reputation for clear air.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Peppers Bluewater Resort.

Day 7 Lake Tekapo to Dunedin
Journeying through the roaming pastures of the Canterbury Plains, you’ll arrive in the vibrant city of Dunedin on the picturesque Otago Peninsula. En route, you’ll see Lake Pukaki and visit the mystical Koekohe Beach to see the unusual Moeraki Boulders.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Southern Cross.

Day 8 Dunedin
Learn of Dunedin’s Scottish heritage as you explore the ‘Edinburgh of the South’ on an illuminating tour, before a relaxing cruise around the Otago Peninsula, spotting blue and yellow-eyed penguins, albatross, sea lions and whales in their natural habitat. Later in the afternoon, you have the option of boarding Dunedin's Taieri Gorge Railway which climbs through breathtaking scenery up into the Taieri River Gorge.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Southern Cross.

Day 9 Dunedin to Milford Sound
On your beautiful journey through Fiordland, you’ll pause at Lake Te Anau on your way to the natural wonder of Milford Sound. You’ll have a little time to explore, before boarding the Milford Mariner for an overnight cruise. The eerily calm waters and majestic rock faces hold many magical sights, from wildlife to the mighty Mitre Peak. The boat anchors at Harrison Cove where you can choose to venture out on a canoe ride or board the vessel’s tender craft for a guided nature tour.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Vessel: Milford Mariner.

Day 10 Milford Sound to Queenstown
Travelling through the historic gold rush region, you’ll stop at Arrowtown to wander pretty, treelined streets, past speciality stores and quirky boutiques. Arriving at Queenstown and gazing from tranquil shoreline to towering mountain tops, is a moment you’re unlikely to forget.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Heritage Queenstown.

Day 11 Queenstown
On your free day, take a relaxed wander around the city’s gardens, or soar above the landscape on the Skyline Gondola cable car ride for views over the mountains and tranquil Lake Wakatipu. But save enough energy for this evening’s cruise across the lake on board the vintage steamer, TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station for dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Hotel: Heritage Queenstown.

Day 12 Queenstown
Another free day to spend exploring, taking in the fresh Alpine air, or simply indulging yourself at this spectacular hotel’s glorious pool and spa.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Heritage Queenstown.

Day 13 Queenstown to Franz Josef
Through the sprawling mountain terrain of Wanaka, past snow-capped peaks, you’ll travel to the forests and glaciers of the World Heritage Westland National Park. The first place to charm you will be the stunning Te Waonui Retreat, nestled within lush rainforest.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Hotel: Te Waonui Forest Retreat.

Day 14 Franz Josef
On this free day, your Tour Manager can recommend some wonderful walks, including the dynamic glacier face route, or arrange optional excursions such as an exhilarating helicopter ride over the glacier and Southern Alps. We recommend a relaxing evening visit to the neighbouring Glacier Hot Pools. An open air soak surrounded by rainforest takes bathing to a whole new level.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Hotel: Te Waonui Forest Retreat.

Day 15 Franz Josef to Nelson
Our journey takes you up to the northern tip of the South Island to arrive at Nelson. Along this leisurely route we will visit Hokitika and Punakaiki Beach best known for its spectacular Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. We then drive through Buller Gorge to our hotel in the lovely city of Nelson on Tasman Bay.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Rutherford Hotel.

Day 16 Nelson
You have a free day to explore at your own pace, Nelson has many fascinating art galleries and exhibitions including the Suter Gallery. Engage in the region’s surrounding beauty on Botanical Hill, one of Nelson’s most popular walks incorporating the leafy Maitai River Valley. There is also an optional excursion to the Abel Tasman National Park with its stunning coastal scenery including tranquil Awaroa Bay.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Rutherford Hotel.

Day 17 Nelson to Wellington
Our scenic route this morning passes through the region’s vineyards to Picton, situated at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound. With luck you may even spot a rare Hector’s dolphin on our ferry ride to Wellington!
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Copthorne Oriental Bay.

Day 18 Wellington
On your free day exploring the fascinating sights and sounds of Wellington, find some time to see the artefacts and exhibits at Te Papa Museum, the shops and cafés on the vibrant waterfront, and the glorious Botanical Gardens. With views over the city and wonderful displays, they’re classified as a Garden of National Significance.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Copthorne Oriental Bay.

Day 19 Wellington to Napier
After a drive north, you’ll arrive at Napier, the city of Art Deco, to immerse yourself in a world of 1930’s architecture. Staying in this wonderful hotel on Hawke’s Bay makes your visit even more memorable. Tonight, you’ll head to a local vineyard for a wine tasting and dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Te Pania.

Day 20 Napier
Spend your free day absorbing the unique charm of this characterful city. Today’s options include a guided walking tour and a trip on the Deco Bus, taking in Marine Parade, Napier Hill and the city’s original port.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Te Pania

Day 21 Napier to Rotorua
On perhaps the most moving trip of the whole tour, you’ll visit Wairekei Terraces to meet a Maori elder. Our travellers usually find that listening to the ancient tribe’s heartfelt stories creates an emotional connection.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Millennium Rotorua.

Day 22 Rotorua
Explore the volcanic landscape of Rotorua, visit hot springs and mud pools at Te Puia Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley and experience the inner force of planet earth as you see how the most active geyser, Pohutu, or Big Splash, gets its name. At the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, you’ll learn more about this fascinating culture.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Millennium Rotorua.

Day 23 Rotorua to Bay of Islands
Continuing northwards past Whangarei to the subtropical Bay of Islands, you can soak up the serenity of your waterfront hotel before dinner with your group.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Hotel: Copthorne Bay of Islands.

Day 24 Bay of Islands
Get ready for a thrilling adventure through pristine, turquoise waters, on the lookout for dolphins and other sea mammals. Sailing towards Cape Brett, the scenery is astounding, including the unmissable Hole in the Rock. In the afternoon, an exclusive experience awaits. You’ll be one of the few travellers welcomed into the Ngaphui Tribe, whose chief, Hone, is pictured on page 2, with his grandson Tani. After a heart-stirring Waka canoe ride on the Waitangi River to the thunderous Haruru Falls, you’ll be spellbound by the tribe’s storytelling, chants and rituals.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Copthorne Bay of Islands.

Day 25 Bay of Islands
If you need any ideas for this free day, ask your Tour Manager. They can arrange a trip to the picturesque township of Russell, or an excursion to the northern tip of the Aupouri Peninsula, to see the solitary landmark of Cape Regina Lighthouse.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Copthorne Bay of Islands

Day 26 Bay of Islands to Auckland
Travelling through the Waipora Forest to the charming village of Matakohe, you’ll stop at the Kauri Museum to uncover stories of New Zealand’s heritage and pioneering days and learn about the native giant kauri tree, which grows in some of the world’s most ancient forests.
Meals: Breakfast.
Hotel: Heritage Auckland.

Day 27 Auckland
Explore the City of Sails on your last free day; you’ll find plenty of fantastic shops, as well as architectural and cultural highlights. In the evening, join your Tour Manager and travelling companions for a farewell dinner in the Orbit Restaurant. 328 metres up in the Auckland Sky Tower, this revolving restaurant will give you a memorable last glimpse of New Zealand.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Hotel: Heritage Auckland.

Day 28 Depart Auckland
After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the airport for your flight home to Heathrow, via Singapore.
Meals: Breakfast, In-flight.

Day 29 Arrive Heathrow
Your flight arrives this afternoon. As well as lifelong memories, we hope you’ve also made some lifelong friendships.

Any questions? Chat to your Personal Travel Advisor on 0161 491 7616