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DAY 1 and DAY 2
LAX or SFO/AUCKLAND |
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Arrive Auckland International Airport. Don’t forget that you have
lost a day while crossing the international dateline. Met by our local representative
who will deliver travel documents, answer your questions, and provide more
details for your tour. Sit back and relax as you transfer by private car
and driver to the hotel. This property is located on the waterfront of Auckland’s
scenic harbour and the city centre and Viaduct Basin are within walking
distance. This afternoon enjoy an introduction tour of the ‘City of
Sails’ by private car and driver featuring the panoramic views from
Mt Eden, one of several extinct volcanoes in the region then wander through
the boutique and specialty shops of Parnell Village, visit the Auckland
Domain and Auckland War Memorial Museum and drive along the Waterfront to
Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World and Antarctic Encounter. Here you
will view marine life from a diver’s perspective through the perspex
tunnel and take a trip to the ‘South Pole’ to see the live penguin
display and a replica of Scott’s Hut as it is today on the frozen
continent.
Accommodation: The Hilton Hotel (water view room)
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DAY 3
AUCKLAND / WAITOMO / ROTORUA |
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Following breakfast this morning, collect a Mitsubishi
Diamante or similar 3 litre automatic vehicle and drive south over the Bombay
Hills through the fertile farmlands of the Waikato Valley to Waitomo in
the King Country. Join your guide for a breath-taking Black Water Rafting
Spellbound eco-journey into the magical Mangawhitikau underground gallery
of ‘stars’. Glide past the strangely sculpted limestone formations
of the cave system on a raft and as the silence surrounds you a glittering
underworld cosmos will gradually appear out of the blackness (duration 3-hours, 1-hour underground). This afternoon travel across rolling
countryside then over the bush-clad Mamaku Ranges to the thermal wonderland
of Rotorua. The lodge is situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua with its
own private jetty and is set in mature gardens where guests are able to
relax and enjoy the views. Dinner at the lodge this evening is four course
silver service and can be served in the formal dining room or al fresco
on the verandah. (BD)
Accommodation: Kawaha Point Lodge (2 nights) |
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| DAY 4
ROTORUA |
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This morning enjoy a small group tour of the Rotorua
area, which includes a visit to a Marae (Ancestral House) and a talk about
the protocol attached to these sacred places then watch a geyser erupt and
view the largest mud pool in New Zealand. Also walk through the colourful
thermal reserve of Wai-O-Tapu (the Sacred Waters) for a geology lesson on
why the mud pools, geysers, hot springs, volcanoes and earthquakes occur
in New Zealand. There will be time for a hot swim in the river or a cold
swim in the lake (optional) before driving past the beautiful Blue and Green
Lakes then on to Lake Tarawera. From here looking across the lake you will
see Mt Tarawera, the volcano that last erupted in 1886 causing widespread
death and destruction around this region. Learn about the Maori legends
and stories attached to these places from your guide – there may even
be a song or two included. Remainder of the afternoon at leisure to enjoy
a self drive tour of the area with admission included to Whakarewarewa Thermal
Reserve – home of the Pohutu Geyser and the Maori Arts and Crafts
Centre where young Maori are taught the carving and weaving skill of their
ancestors. Also included is the popular sheep show at the Agrodome where
you will learn about the sheep industry in New Zealand and see the working
dogs demonstrate their skill on these animals then enjoy a walk through
restful grounds of Rainbow Springs – see the Rainbow Trout swimming
freely in the crystal clear pools and streams, view the Tuatara –
New Zealand’s living fossil and visit the nocturnal kiwihouse to see
this shy creature which is a New Zealand icon. This evening transfer by
coach to a Marae (pre-European village) for a powhiri (welcome) from the
Maori warriors as they issue the traditional challenge, wander through the
village itself surrounded by bush then enjoy a lively and entertaining concert
of Maori song and dance before being served a hangi (dinner) which has been
especially prepared in the earth oven. (BD) |
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DAY 5
ROTORUA / TAUPO |
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Today drive south through to the township of Taupo
which is situated on the shores of New Zealand’s largest lake. This
area is well known for its trout fishing as well as being a popular summer
resort. You may wish to join a cruise on the lake or soak in the hot pools
(not included) before arriving at the lodge, which is situated on the banks
of the Waikato River upstream from the Huka Falls. Consistently ranked as
one of the top lodges in the world, the guest rooms are secluded, nestled
amongst towering trees. Enjoy a 5 course dinner at the lodge this evening.
(BD)
Accommodation: Huka Lodge (2 nights)
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DAY 6
TAUPO |
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After breakfast at the lodge the day is at leisure to
enjoy the lodge grounds and facilities, including the library. Fishing guides
can be arranged at extra cost should you wish to try your skill in New Zealand
waters. Dinner at the lodge this evening. (BD)
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DAY 7
TAUPO / HAWKE BAY |
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Following breakfast at the lodge travel around the shores
of the lake then east over the ranges through the Esk Valley into Hawke
Bay. The lodge was built for the Wattie family in the late 19th century
and has been totally refurbished with each suite decorated in a unique theme.
Dinner at the lodge this evening. (BD)
Accommodation: Mangapapa Lodge (2 nights) |
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DAY 8
HAWKE BAY |
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Today enjoy a 6 hour exclusive tour of the area – visit some of
the wineries where you are able to sample their produce and learn about
the local wine making process. Also visit Napier, known as the ‘Art
Deco’ City – this is the result of rebuilding after the devastating
earthquake in 1931 and now the city takes great pride in its architecture.
Lunch at own cost. Dinner at the lodge this evening. (BD)
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DAY 9
HAWKE BAY / PALLISER BAY |
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After breakfast drive south through the Wairarapa
region perhaps stopping at the village of Martinborough where you can visit
the wine centre in the town square or some of the nearby vineyards before
continuing on to the lodge at Palliser Bay where you will be expected for
dinner this evening. Set on 2,200 hectares of farmland overlooking the rugged
coastline the lodge itself is modelled on an Edwardian Country Mansion while
the self-contained guest cottages offer uninterrupted ocean views. (BD)
Accommodation: Wharekauhau Country Estate
(2 nights)
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DAY 10
PALLISER BAY
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Enjoy all the lodge has to offer – the outdoors with a hike, try the
gymnasium, spa pool, swimming pool or tennis court, take a 4WD safari tour
or simply relax and unwind with a game of croquet or petanque (some activities
extra charge applies). Breakfast and dinner included. (BD)
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DAY 11
PALLISER BAY / BLENHEIM |
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Following breakfast drive to the capital city of Wellington. Return rental
vehicle to the ferry terminal depot and cruise across Cook Strait on the
Interislander Ferry to the South Island. On arrival in Picton collect a
Mitsubishi Diamante or similar automatic vehicle and drive into the Marlborough
Wine Region. You may wish to enjoy your own wine trail visiting some of
the best known
wineries in New Zealand, which are winning gold award around the world.
Your accommodation tonight is set in 25 acres of English style gardens that
recall the charm of days gone by and are home to many native birds, mature
trees and sweeping lawns. Dinner at the lodge is included this evening.
(BD)
Accommodation: Timara Lodge (1 night) |
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DAY 12
BLENHEIM / MARUIA SPRINGS |
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Breakfast at the lodge then drive along the eastern coastline passing through
the village of Kaikoura, where the mountains meet the sea. Here join a Whale
Watch excursion out into the bay, which is rich in marine life and nutrients.
See these magnificent creatures in their natural environment as they break
the waterline before diving below the surface once more. Continue on State
Highway 1 then turn inland and travel the Lewis Pass Rd to Maruia Springs.
The lodge is situated on the banks of the Maruia River, which is said to
be one of the finest trout fishing rivers in the South Island. The guest
cottages are detached from the main lodge and also overlook the river. Enjoy
dinner at the lodge this evening. (BD)
Accommodation: Maruia River Lodge (1 night) |
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DAY 13
MARUIA SPRINGS / LAKE MOERAKI |
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Time permitting after breakfast you may wish to take a short bush walk then
travel across to the gold and coal mining town of Greymouth on the West
Coast. From here continue your journey through the town of Hokitika, well
known for its greenstone (jade) studios where jewellery and ornaments of
both modern and traditional design are crafted, and on to the village of
Franz Josef. Take a 40 minute scenic flight over the glacier area by helicopter
with views of Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak and the surrounding
snow-capped mountains. There will be a snow landing for that special photo
opportunity before returning to the village. Drive through the ever-changing
scenery of rainforest, rivers, lakes and beaches to Lake Moeraki. The lodge
is unique for its remoteness, set on the banks of the Moeraki River only
2 kilometres from the Tasman Sea. Enjoy a 4 course dinner at the lodge this
evening. (BD)
Accommodation: Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki
(2 nights) |
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DAY 14
LAKE MOERAKI |
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Breakfast at the lodge and then the day is free to explore the area. The lodge's
unique setting is on the banks of the Moeraki River only
2 kilometres from the Tasman Sea. A main attraction of this area is in the variety of activities. Mountain
bikes, kayaks and canoes are available for guest use and there is a complimentary
guided naturalist program of two activities guest can join such as lake canoeing, glow-worm
and night sky walks, or rainforest
and bird discovery walks all the way to the sea. The shores are frequented by penguins, seals, and sea lions.
Dinner at the lodge. (BD) |
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DAY 15
LAKE MOERAKI / QUEENSTOWN
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Breakfast at the lodge before travelling through the rugged beauty of the
Haast Pass then around the shores of glacial Lakes Hawea and Wanaka to the
delightful lakeside resort of Queenstown. The lodge is located on the lake
edge with uninterrupted views just a 6km drive from the town centre. Situated
in 4 hectares of native bush the lodge offers a spa pavilion, library and
lounge with accommodation in the main lodge or in a villa set amongst the
landscaped grounds. Dinner at the lodge is included. (BD)
Accommodation: Matakauri Lodge (2 nights) |
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DAY 16
QUEENSTOWN |
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This morning transfer by shuttle to the settlement
of Glenorchy at the head of the lake. Depart for a jet boat ride up the
braided channels of the Dart River into the Mt Aspiring National Park learning
about the flora, fauna and history of the area. At the turnaround point
tuck your cameras away and hold on tight for the return journey with a few
thrills along the way. There will be a short guided walk through the beech
forest beside a crystal clear burn and a 4WD tour from Paradise where you
will be able to view some of the locations used in the Lord of the Rings
movie trilogy. Return to Queenstown and the remainder of the day is at leisure
– an aerial gondola ride to Bob’s Peak for the panoramic views
across the lake to the mountains is included. Dinner at the lodge this evening.
(BD)
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DAY 17
QUEENSTOWN / MILFORD SOUND |
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Early this morning after breakfast travel by coach via Te Anau and the dramatic
landscape of the Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound. Cruise the fiord
enjoying the stunning scenery of cascading waterfalls, dense rainforest,
steep cliff faces and marine life that inhabits these waters. There will
be the opportunity to explore the shoreline independently by kayak or in
a tender craft with your nature guide. Dinner on board. En suite twin cabins.
(BD)
Accommodation: Milford Mariner (1 night) |
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DAY 18
MILFORD SOUND / QUEENSTOWN |
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After breakfast the boat returns to Milford Wharf. Take a scenic flight
over the National Parks with soaring mountain tops and deep glacial valleys
to Queenstown (weather permitting) once more. Remainder of the afternoon
at leisure - you may wish to cruise the lake on the vintage steamer, try
horse riding, enjoy a round of golf or the challenge of white water rafting,
join a winery tour to some of the most southern vineyards in the world or
if you dare - try bungy-jumping (all at extra cost). You will be expected
at the lodge for dinner this evening. (BD)
Accommodation: Matakauri Lodge (1 night) |
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DAY 19
DEPART NEW ZEALAND
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Breakfast at the lodge. Return rental vehicle to the Queenstown
Airport. Fly to Christchurch or Auckland Airport to connect with your onward
flights. Depart New Zealand. (B)
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