New Zealand Vacations

Luxury Tour Vacations 4

12 Days Southern Starter (Queenstown to Auckland) Tour Package 

Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Priced From: Contact Travelwizard

Day 2. Milford Sound Day Excursion. This morning travel to Milford Sound and join a cruise on the magnificent Fiord. View cascading waterfalls, dense rainforest and towering mountains. This afternoon return to the 'Alpine Resort' of Queenstown.

Day 3. Queenstown to Haast. Today we travel towards the West Coast travelling via the shores of Lakes Hawea and Wanaka. Journey over the magnificent Southern Alps, through the spectacular Haast Pass. The village of Haast is on the west coast where the mighty Haast river meets the sea. Hasst Heritage Hotel

Day 4. Haast to Greymouth. We travel along the West Coast, through a world of mountains and glaciers, limestone landscapes, tranquil lakes, raging rivers and rare bird and plant life. There is an optional scenic flight over the glaciers of this region (own expense, weather permitting). Journey to Hokitika, where there is an opportunity to see Greenstone being carved. Kingsgate Hotel

Day 5. Greymouth to Christchurch. Journey to Punakaiki to view the fascinating pancake rock formations and blowholes. Returning to Greymouth we visit Shantytown a faithfully recreated 1900's pioneer town. This afternoon we board the TranzAlpine train. Enjoy stunning scenery as we journey through spectacular gorges, river valleys and across the country's greatest mountain range, the magnificent Southern Alps. Arrive in the 'Garden City' of Christchurch. Hotel Ibis

Day 6. Christchurch to Picton. Arrive in the thriving seaside settlement of Kaikoura, an area offering unique whale, seal and dolphin watching experiences. Continue to Blenheim, the 'Sunshine Capital' of New Zealand and visit Brancott Winery Estate one of the largest vineyards in the area. Continue to the charming seaside port of Picton for our overnight stay. Beachcomber Resort

Day 7. Picton to Wellington. This morning we join our Interislander cruise across Cook Strait to the seaside capital city of Wellington. Upon arrival enjoy a city sightseeing tour before we visit Te Papa - the 'Museum of New Zealand'. The remainder of today is at leisure. Bay Plaza

Day 8. Wellington to Napier. Leaving Wellington this morning we cross the Rimutaka Ranges into the farming district of the Wairarapa. Continue through the Hawke's Bay, an area dominated by orchards and vineyards, to the coastal township of Napier. In 1931, an earthquake destroyed the city of Napier which was rebuilt in the 1930's 'Art Deco' style. This afternoon enjoy a guided walking tour of Napier. Tennyson Motor Inn

Day 9. Napier to Rotorua. Today we journey north and see the spectacular Huka Falls, mouth of the mighty Waikato River and visit the town of Taupo, built on the shores of tranquil Lake Taupo, the water filled crater of an ancient volcano. Continue to Rotorua. Tonight immerse yourself in culture as you enjoy a Hangi (feast) and Maori cultural performance. Hotel Ibis (2 nights) D

Day 10. Rotorua. This morning experience the attractions of Rotorua. We visit Te Puia Thermal Reserve, with most forms of geothermal activity, including steaming ground, boiling mud pools, hot springs and impressive geysers. Continue to the Agrodome to enjoy an entertaining sheep and farm show and learn about New Zealand's important sheep industry.

Country Homestay Option available tonight

Day 11. Rotorua to Auckland. Travelling north to Auckland we stop at Waitomo to experience a guided tour of the underground limestone caverns, including the magnificent 'Cathedral' cave. This afternoon arrive in Auckland where we ascend to the crest of Mt Eden to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city. Hotel Ibis

Day 12. Depart Auckland. Today is at your leisure, until you are transferred from your hotel to Auckland International Airport.

Contact: Travelwizard.com
Phone: 1-800-330-8820 or 1-415-446-5252

12/09

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