Package Overview:
The New Zealand trip has one of the most spectacular sights of the world. Your tour includes a trip down the lush Waikato pasturelands which is a feast for the eyes. If this does not impress you then the caves at Waitomo surely will change your opinion of the places. The Waitomo caves have large stalactites that look as if they were from some ancient civilizations. But the most magnificent sight is the glowworms hanging on silvery threads. The caves gets almost an eerie feel as it is glowworms emit light throughout the caves. After that travel across he scenic Waikato River to the geothermal springs of Rotorua.The Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve close to Rotorua has some spectacular geysers of the region. Near to it is the Paradise Vally Springs which is famous for its clear trout filled waters.
Itinerary:
Day
1: Arrive New Zealand
On arrival at Auckland Airport you are met and transferred to your hotel.
Day
2: Auckland / Waitomo Caves / Rotorua
Breakfast at hotel. This morning travel south over the Bombay Hills and through the lush Waikato pasturelands. At Waitomo, tour the subterranean caves by boat, see a grotto illuminated by countless tiny glowworms suspended from the caves ceiling. Travel across the Waikato River and the Mamaku Hills to the famous geothermal centre of Rotorua.
Day
3: In Rotorua
Breakfast at hotel. A morning Rotorua sightseeing tour including the following attractions and activities. A guided tour through Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve to see roaring geysers and boiling mud pools, Paradise Valley Springs where you will see New Zealand native bird and animal wildlife plus crystal clear pools teeming with trout. The Agrodome Leisure Park famous for its entertaining sheep show. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy at your leisure.
Day
4: Rotorua / Christchurch
Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Rotorua Airport for your flight to Christchurch, where you will be met and transferred to your accommodation. Rest of the day free at leisure for optional activities.
Day
5: Christchurch / Mount Cook / Queenstown
Travel across the Breakfast at hotel. Canterbury Plains to reach Mount Cook around lunchtime. A rare opportunity here to take an optional scenic flight for an overview of Mount Cook’s ice falls, snow fields and glaciers. Your journey continues over the Lindis Pass and through the Kawarau Gorge to Queenstown.
Day
6: Day at leisure / Queenstown
Breakfast at hotel. A full day free to explore the many exciting optional excursions available in Queenstown. Take a scenic flight, gondola ride or perhaps cruise the lake on the vintage Earnslaw. Try a thrilling jetboat ride or the Dart River excursion, white water rafting or the world famous bungy jump.
Day
7: Milford Sound Excursion
Breakfast at hotel. An early start as you follow Lake Wakatipu via Kingston arriving in Te Anau for a morning tea break. Follow the shores of Lake Te Anau before entering the Eglington Valley. Pass the mirror lakes and travel through the avenue of the disappearing mountain. Our spectacular drive continues through the mountains, valley and forests of the Fiordland National Park, with a dramatic descent into Milford Sound. A fascinating launch cruise to Bowen Falls and Mitre Peak is included. Later today return by coach to Queenstown.
Day
8: Queenstown / West Coast Glaciers
Breakfats at hotel. A memorable trip through some of the most magnificent scenery in New Zealand. Travel via Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea and over the Haast Pass to the beech forests of Mt Aspiring National Park.
Day
9: Day at leisure / West Coast Glaciers
Breakfast at hotel. A full day free to explore the Glacier area. You may like to enjoy a guided walk to the Glacier terminal, or take a scenic flight for a bird’s eye view of this spectacular terrain.
Day
10: West Coast Glaciers / Greymouth / Christchurch
Breakfast at hotel. This travel northwards following along the coast to Greymouth. Board the scenic Tranz Alpine Express train, a journey famous for its spectacular mountain scenery as it traverses the Southern Alps to Christchurch. You will be transferred to your hotel upon arrival in Christchurch.
Day
11: Depart Christchurch
Breakfast at hotel, and transfer to the airport for your departure flight.