Kia Ora New Zealand
17 Day Guided Vacation | Auckland to Christchurch
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Kia Ora New Zealand
17 Day Guided Vacation
| Auckland to Christchurch
Travel period
Kia Ora New Zealand
17 Day Guided Vacation
Auckland to Christchurch
Begin your New Zealand story with a cruise in the stunning Bay of Islands. Continue the narrative with the arts and traditions of Maori culture, and the sweeping vistas of the Marlborough Sounds. Conclude your epic narrative with tales of intrepid settlers in Central Otago, and thrills in Queenstown, the adventure capital.
Choose This Trip If You'd Love To:
- Explore the most magical icons of New Zealand
- Take the famed TranzAlpine across the Southern Alps
- Spot wildlife as you cruise on magical Milford Sound
- Experience the Waitomo Caves and Tamaki Māori Village
Kia Ora New Zealand (Travel Period: 01 Apr 2020 – 31 Mar 2021)
Flexible Vacations
Enjoy a full day to explore Queenstown on your own. Why not try one of the activities on offer?
Iconic Sites
Explore famous Milford Sound and the spectacular Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Time For You
Travel to the very top of the North Island or just relax by the resort pool – its up to you!
Sustainable Travel
Lunch is supplied through Eat My Lunch, supporting New Zealand children that may have gone to school without lunch.
After settling in to your hotel, you’ll have time to explore Auckland at your own pace. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Reception with your Travel Director.
Hotel: VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
Travel along the scenic Hibiscus Coast to the Bay of Islands. Enjoy spectacular scenery as you cruise to Cape Brett, and through the ‘Hole in the Rock’.
Hotel: Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands, Garden Rooms, 2 nights
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Explore the Bay of Islands at leisure today.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxed morning before travelling through lush farmland on your way back to Auckland.
Hotel: VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
Included Meals: Breakfast
After a tour of Auckland’s city highlights, trace the Waikato River to the Waitomo Caves where you’ll explore the Waitomo Glowworm Grotto by boat. Your journey continues to Rotorua for an orientation tour with views of Lake Rotorua. This evening, enjoy a Māori Hangi feast Highlight Dinner and concert at the Tamaki Māori Village.
Hotel: Ibis Rotorua Hotel, 2 nights
Included Meals: Breakfast, Highlight dinner
Your morning is free. You might like to visit Rainbow Springs Nature Park for a glimpse of New Zealand’s iconic kiwi bird, or Te Puia, the Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Journey through tall pine forests and verdant farmland to spectacular Huka Falls and serene Lake Taupo. Drive along the shores of New Zealand’s biggest lake through the alpine scenery of Mt. Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park and the dairy farms of Manawatu. Then follow the Kapiti Coast to Wellington for a city orientation tour.
Hotel: Travelodge Wellington
Included Meals: Breakfast
Your special packed lunch today won’t only be wholesome, it will also feed a Kiwi child who may otherwise go without, through the charity ‘Eat My Lunch’. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Wellington, and then visit Te Papa Museum of New Zealand. Cruise across the Cook Strait and explore the maze of inlets of Queen Charlotte Sound. Later you’ll travel to the seaside village of Picton and take a tour of the city before dinner.
Hotel: Picton Beachcomber Inn
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to Kaikoura, where sperm whales can often be seen not far from shore. Travel along the Pacific Ocean coast and across the colourful Canterbury Plains to Christchurch.
Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch
Included Meals: Breakfast
Explore Christchurch at leisure this morning, then travel over the fertile plains to serene Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo. View the Church of the Good Shepherd and soak up the scenery of Mt. Cook National Park.
Hotel: Heritage Gateway Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Visit the Waitaki Hydro Power Scheme and the monumental spillway of the nearby Benmore Dam. Then travel to the town of Oamaru, with its celebrated white limestone buildings. Continue to Dunedin, New Zealand’s southernmost city.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
Included Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy free time in Dunedin and then travel across the fertile sheep-dotted pastures of South Otago en route to Te Anau.
Hotel: Distinction Luxmore Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Your experience in Milford Sound today is sure to be one of the highlights of your journey. Travel first through tall native rainforests and rugged mountains, then cruise the serene waters of this natural wonder. On the way to Queenstown see Mirror Lake, Cleddau Valley, the Chasm, Mitre Peak and Bowen Falls, then travel along the Devil’s Staircase and the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown , 2 nights
Included Meals: Breakfast
Explore New Zealand’s adventure capital at your own pace today. Later in the afternoon, cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue Highlight Dinner.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Highlight dinner
Visit the faithfully-restored gold mining settlement of Arrowtown and travel on to Cromwell to taste its sensational stone fruit. You will then travel over Haast Pass and view the sheer drop of Thunder Creek Falls on your way to Franz Josef Glacier.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Graham Wing)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning’s destination is Hokitika, home of New Zealand’s famous greenstone. Then continue to Arthur’s Pass to board the iconic TranzAlpine train and take one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. This evening, join your Travel Director for a Farewell Dinner.
Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch
Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell dinner
Your holiday comes to an end this morning after breakfast.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Your Guided Holiday includes a range of quality accommodation for your comfort.
The accommodation you will enjoy on this tour includes:
A BRAND New 4.5 Qualmark rated apartment Hotel & Suites with an unbeatable location on Queen Street, contemporary styling and well-appointed modern rooms. For the convenience of travellers and visitors to Auckland, VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites is an ideal location, situated on the prime street of Auckland CBD. This brand new hotel offers excellent convenience of being in the heart of the business, shopping and food district of Auckland.
- Air-conditioning
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Wireless Internet access
- Hair Dryer
- TV
Features
This welcoming Bay of Islands hotel commands a superb waterfront location in the heart of the Bay of Islands, offering uninterrupted bay views surrounded by 60 acres of subtropical gardens as part of the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
- 42" flat screen TV with Sky channels
- Wi-Fi
- Refrigerator
- Mini Bar
- Hair Dryer
- Iron / Ironing Board
- In-room safe
- Coffee/tea making facilities
- Phone
Features
A BRAND New 4.5 Qualmark rated apartment Hotel & Suites with an unbeatable location on Queen Street, contemporary styling and well-appointed modern rooms. For the convenience of travellers and visitors to Auckland, VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites is an ideal location, situated on the prime street of Auckland CBD. This brand new hotel offers excellent convenience of being in the heart of the business, shopping and food district of Auckland.
- Air-conditioning
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Wireless Internet access
- Hair Dryer
- TV
Features
Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Rotorua, this hotel offers tranquil surroundings with sensational views. Our central location is easily accessible to cafés, restaurants and the Energy Events Convention Centre. Stunning natural scenery and geothermal wonders makes this the ultimate destination.
- Ensuite
- Air-conditioning
- Telephone - Voice Mail
- Soundproofed Windows
- TV
- In-house movies
- Pay TV
- 220/240 V AC
- Data port in room
- High speed transmission line (pay)
- Work Desk
- Manual temperature control
- Iron
- Coffee/tea making facilities
- Hairdryer
- Automatic wake up call
Features
With close proximity to the city’s financial hub as well as many Wellington attractions, such as Wellington Zoo, the Wellington Cable Car, the Te Papa Museum of New Zealand, and the Wellington Botanic Gardens, Travelodge Hotel Wellington is perfectly located for both business and leisure travel.
- Hair Dryer
- Pay TV
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Individual heater control
- LCD TV
- Refrigerator
- Internet Access
- Microwave
Features
Whether you are a holiday-maker or an overseas tourist, you will have a memorable stay at The Picton Beachcomber Inn — a quality hotel accommodation that is comfortable; peaceful; affordable; clean and tidy.
Located right on the waterfront, within a 2 minute walk from the Picton retail shops; 800metres from Picton Ferry Terminal.
- Ensuite
- Heater
- Shower
- Radio
- Alarm Clock
- Direct Dial Telephone
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Wireless Internet access
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- Free wireless internet access
- Hairdryer
- Flat Screen TV
- Sky TV
- Shower and toilet facilities
Features
Ibis Christchurch is ready to welcome you. Adjacent to the new shopping heart of Christchurch, Cashell Mall. The "pop up" shopping precinct is the new vibrant heart of the city, featuring many new designer shops and modern cafes. Ibis Hotel Christchurch is very close to the famous Cathedral Square, the historic heart of the city providing easy access to the outer lying attractions and the airport. The Ibis features 155 contemporary rooms, restaurant OOPEN, a bar and meeting room.
- 220/240 V AC
- Data port in room
- Air-conditioning
- Flat Screen TV
- Satellite/cable colour TV
- Work Desk
- Direct Dial Telephone
- Manual temperature control
- Wi-Fi in room (Pay)
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- Coffee/tea making facilities
- Ensuite
- Shower
- Hairdryer
- Iron
- Security peephole
- Automatic wake up call
- Operator wake up call
- Alarm Clock
Features
Located in the heart of the Mackenzie/Waitaki region, a unique area of New Zealand's South Island. Set amongst landscaped gardens with views of the surrounding mountains, the Heritage Gateway Hotel is a peaceful place to stay.
- Ensuite
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Wireless Internet access
- Phone
- TV
- Electric blankets
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Hairdryer
- Refrigerator
Features
This stylish hotel has a fresh contemporary design, with clean lines and dramatic features softened by natural elements such as timber and neutral tones. At once energetic, yet restful, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is well in tune with the beat of this vibrant city. Located in the heart of the city and just blocks from the Octagon, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is within walking distance of many of the city's main attractions, great restaurants and shopping centres. So whether you are visiting Dunedin for business or pleasure look no further than the exquisite Scenic Hotel Dunedin City for your accommodation choice!
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Mini Bar
- Work Desk
- Hair Dryer
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Wireless Internet access
- Refrigerator
Features
Escape to the serene surroundings of Lake Te Anau before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland National Park. The hotel is located in the heart of the visitor-friendly township of Te Anau, in the stunning and world-famous region of Fiordland.
- Ensuite
- Heater
- Phone
- TV
- Refrigerator
- Bathroom Amenities
Features
Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront is located on Frankton Road, just five minutes stroll to the heart of Queenstown.
The hotel resort is close to many wonderful activities, from the town's world famous jet boat rides to radical white water rafting, bungee jumping, vineyards, international golf courses and ski fields.
- Ensuite
- TV
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Refrigerator
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- Telephone - Voice Mail
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Hairdryer
Features
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier sits at the edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, and is just moments from one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attractions, the Franz Josef Glacier. Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier makes the most of its alpine location and offers quality accommodation in two separate hotel ‘wings’. Stay in either the Douglas or Graham wing, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings within Franz Josef village. Our hotel is in a premium location, making it the perfect place to base yourself while exploring the magnificent Westland region.
- Hair Dryer
- Wireless Internet access
- Work Desk
- Mini Bar
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Refrigerator
- Four Spa Pools
Features
Ibis Christchurch is ready to welcome you. Adjacent to the new shopping heart of Christchurch, Cashell Mall. The "pop up" shopping precinct is the new vibrant heart of the city, featuring many new designer shops and modern cafes. Ibis Hotel Christchurch is very close to the famous Cathedral Square, the historic heart of the city providing easy access to the outer lying attractions and the airport. The Ibis features 155 contemporary rooms, restaurant OOPEN, a bar and meeting room.
- 220/240 V AC
- Data port in room
- Air-conditioning
- Flat Screen TV
- Satellite/cable colour TV
- Work Desk
- Direct Dial Telephone
- Manual temperature control
- Wi-Fi in room (Pay)
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- Coffee/tea making facilities
- Ensuite
- Shower
- Hairdryer
- Iron
- Security peephole
- Automatic wake up call
- Operator wake up call
- Alarm Clock
Features
Need accommodation before or after your tour?
Our special discounted rates make booking accommodation with us during your holiday both easy and affordable at selected AAT Kings hotels and resorts. Find out more
- Comfortable accommodation
- Travel by luxury coach
- Airport transfers (see flight information below)
- Experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
To ensure your holiday is filled with memorable experiences, we have included a range of quality Optional Excursions for you to choose from and partake in, if you wish, during your holiday. The excursions can be booked on tour through your Travel Director.
NZ$160 Adult NZ$80 Child
A visit to New Zealand is not complete without a journey to the very top of the North Island – Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua). Drive along the sand on Ninety Mile Beach as the waves crash beside the custom-built coach. Your off-road journey continues up Te Paki Stream, stopping at the massive sand dunes where you can experience the thrills and spills of sand-boarding. Clambering up and surfing down the dunes (if you dare!) is sure to get your heart pumping. Enjoy a lunch of delicious fresh fish and chips at the historic Wagener Museum at Houhora. A vegetarian option is available and can be selected when booking.
NZ$65 Adult NZ$32.50 Child
Enjoy a relaxing tour of Kerikeri, showcasing the rich history of the North. This tour takes a look at the importance of wine-growing in the region and visits a small family-run boutique vineyard, Ake Ake to sample some of their organic wine. And then take a step back in time with visits to the Historic Stone Store and Kemp House. And then conclude the tour with a stop-off at the local chocolate factory – Makana – where you can watch the delicious chocolates being made, and of course, taste a few samples!
NZ$109 Adult NZ$42 Child
Relax with a scenic cruise down the Waitangi River while enjoying a drink from the well-stocked bar. Wind through to Haruru Falls, where dinner is prepared and served aboard the boat, the Ratanui. Soak up the ambience of the floodlit falls, and perhaps even come face to face with a Taniwha!
NZ$45 Adult, Under 18 years are free of charge
Take a wander through the grounds of New Zealand’s most important historic site, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, rich in history and stories of the momentous events which shaped a nation. The grounds are where Maori chiefs first signed their accord with the British Crown – the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand’s founding document. Visit treasures such as the Treaty House, Meeting House, Flagstaff and Ceremonial War Canoe. Roam the grounds on your own, or enhance your visit with a guided tour. Many of the guides descend from signatories to the Treaty which will give your visit a personal connection to Waitangi.
From NZ$45 Adult NZ$25 Child
Set in 22 acres of beautiful native trees and streams, Rainbow Springs is home to a huge variety of New Zealand’s most precious inhabitants. Experience the adrenalin rush of The Big Splash, explore the many free flight aviaries, come face to face with pre-history in the eyes of the tuatara, and experience the wonder of the bird show featuring some of the funniest feathered performers you will ever see. Includes Kiwi Encounter.
NZ$60 Adult NZ$30 Child
Take a wander through Te Puia, New Zealand’s Maori Culture Centre, where you will have the opportunity to view the awesome power of the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley… and much more!
Rotorua City and Lakes Tour - NZ$75 Adult NZ$50 Child
Tarawera and Lakes Tour - NZ$95 Adult NZ$60 Child
Rotorua City and Lakes Tour - Our Rotorua City and Lakes tour is a fantastic sightseeing experience. Combine learning about a historically significant area with the thrill of riding in New Zealand’s only genuine operating WW2 landing crafts. Beginning in the heart of Rotorua, you’ll see historic buildings, hot springs, geothermal wonders and more. Then, head out to Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake), our most recreational lake, and Lake Okareka – nestled in the heart of a vibrant community – for two fun Splashdowns.
Tarawera and Lakes Tour - Discover Rotorua’s spectacular lakes area from the comfort of a fully restored World War II amphibious vehicle, able to travel on land and water. A 90 minute fun-filled and scenic journey that ventures onto the three Rotorua lakes, and is accompanied by an entertaining and informative commentary.
NZ$119 Adult NZ$35 Child
Discover the real Middle-earth on the most picturesque private farmland near Matamata in the North Island of New Zealand, where you can visit the Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings film trilogy in a fascinating two-hour guided tour.
NZ$395 Adult NZ$295 Child
Explore the alpine wonderland of the Southern Alps’ highest peaks and glacial lakes on this 45-minute scenic flight, including Murchison Glacier, Tasman Glacier, Main Divide, Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, westland coastal rainforests and Mount Cook.
NZ$30 Adult NZ$14 Child
No visitor to Dunedin should leave without taking the Speight’s Brewery Tour. Since 1876 the brewery has been proudly producing Speight’s legendary ales from the same site in Rattray Street. On the Speight’s Brewery Tour you’ll see, smell, touch and taste the ingredients that go into making Speight’s beers – and of course, get to sample “The Pride of the South” for yourself!
NZ$154 Adult NZ$56 Child
Cruise the length of the beautiful Otago Harbour, passing by the historic fishing village of Careys Bay and the working port of Port Chalmers. Then continue your tour out to the tip of the Otago Peninsula, enjoying unrivalled wildlife viewing. See what cannot be seen from land – Albatross, New Zealand Fur Seals and up to 20 species of bird and marine life in their undisturbed and otherwise inaccessible environment.
NZ$109 Adult NZ$29 Child
Taieri Gorge Railway is one of the world’s great train trips, taking passengers from the hustle and bustle of Dunedin’s city centre to the rugged mountain interior of Central Otago, and back. Travel in comfort, cross magnificent stone and wrought iron viaducts, travel through a series of tunnels with rock walls only inches from the side of the train.
NZ$78 Adult NZ$39 Child
Let your local driver take you on an exciting Otago Peninsula drive to New Zealand’s only castle. Your guided tour of the Larnach family home will give you insight into not only the architecture and style of the stately building, but also into William Larnach’s family life and the restoration done by the current owners during the past three decades. Enjoy views from the tower and marvel at the immaculate gardens before your return to Dunedin.
NZ$101 Adult NZ$30 Child
2.5 hour tour incorporating a cruise across Lake Te Anau to Cavern House. Enjoy a guided tour (in small groups) through the limestone caverns, waterfalls and the glow worm grotto. Complimentary tea & coffee is available at Cavern House.
NZ$420 adult NZ$260 Child
A scenic flight from Milford Sound to return back to Queenstown. During the 35 minute flight take in panoramic views of spectacular scenery including glaciers, rivers, lakes and rainforest. Returrn transport to Queenstown accommodation is included.
NZ$55 Adult NZ$25 Child
The Kiwi Birdlife Park is a wildlife sanctuary found in the heart of Queenstown. They hold and display over 20 species of native NZ wildlife in our 5 acre Park, all of which are part of nationally managed programmes. Your entry fee supports their conservation work. They offer guaranteed kiwi viewing in our specially constructed nocturnal houses, audio tours (available in English and Japanese; allow 45min), Conservation Shows (11am, 3pm; allow 30min) and Kiwi Feedings (10am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 4.30pm; allow 15min). They offer an all-day pass and the park can be enjoyed in all weather. Experience conservation in action!
NZ$159 Adult NZ$89 Child
Enjoy a 30-minute jet boat ride down the mighty Shotover River and through Shotover Canyon with the only company permitted to operate in this area. A major highlight is experiencing the famous “Shotover Jet Turn” where your boat spins through a full 360 degrees turn. Includes return transfers from Queenstown. (Duration: 1.5 hours in total)
Tour Only: NZ$155 Adult NZ$95 Child
Tour with Jet Boat: NZ$195 Adult NZ$115 Child
Skippers Canyon Jet are the only company to offer a complete 4WD tour of Skippers Canyon and access to the unique mining relics available in the Sainsbury gold claim museum. Following the winding, yet majestic Skippers road, which carves its way down from the Coronet Peak ski road, over the saddle and down “Long gully” through to Skippers Canyon; your guide will detail the history of the road, hardships of the miners and how many miners were killed building the road over a century ago.
NZ$95 Adult NZ$49 Child
Enjoy Queenstown’s most spectacular views while savouring the finest NZ flavours. Be tempted by a lavish six course “Taste of New Zealand” buffet whilst dining in the relaxed atmosphere.
NZ$109 Adult NZ$59 Child
Travel on a purpose built fully enclosed river jet boat with front-loading access. Great visibility is ensured, yet you remain warm, dry and comfortable, making this a unique and safe experience suitable for anyone of any age to participate in and enjoy.
Neve Discoverer Flight 20min - NZ$280 Adult NZ$196 Child
Twin Glacier Flight 30min - NZ$360 Adult NZ$252 Child
Mountain Scenic Spectacular Flight 40min - NZ$490 Adult NZ$343 Child
Neve Discoverer Flight 20min - Lift off and fly up over the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier to land amongst this alpine wonderland on a 20-minute scenic flight. Highlights include landing at the head of the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier and a snow or icefall landing.
Twin Glacier Flight 30min - From a mantle of pure white snow, massive rivers of ice wind their way down glacier valleys. Explore the glaciers, an incredible natural phenomenon on this 30-minute scenic flight. Highlights include a snow landing at the head of the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier.
Mountain Scenic Spectacular Flight 40min - Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox snowfields on this 40-minute scenic flight. Cross the main divide for breathtaking views of Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Highlights include a snow landing, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers and Mt Cook.
Optional Experiences indicated are Australian or New Zealand dollars. Please note that occasionally weather or seasonal conditions may not permit their operation. Some also depend on a minimum number of participants and suitable time being available. Please see your Travel Director for a full list of experiences.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
- Water bottle
- Camera
- Jacket in cooler months
Fitness Requirements
- Low level of fitness required
Dining
- 16 Full buffet breakfasts
- 1 Lunch
- 2 Highlight Dinners
- 5 Dinners
- 1 Farewell Dinner
Flight Information
- Day 1 - Flights to arrive prior to 4.00pm into Auckland Airport
- Day 17 - Flights to depart anytime from Christchurch Airport
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