Midwest Diving Specialists Opt 3 [CD1157C]
Summary
![Midwest Diving Specialists Opt 3 [CD1157C]](http://www.aboutaustralia.com/a2it_package/images/travel/Tutukaka Photo 1.jpg)
Auckland, Tutukaka, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown
Auckland's blend of landscape, Polynesian culture, glistening harbours and modern city environment creates an unbelievable lifestyle ranked amongst the best in the world. It is the largest city in New Zealand claiming one third of the population of the country.
Next, Enjoy a coach transfer from Auckland along the coast to the quaint town of Tutukaka. The heads of this beautiful natural harbour open to the Pacific Ocean and the Poor Knights Islands marine reserve, a world-renowned diving location. There are some picturesque beaches within the harbour and the road north leads to several spectacular white-sand ocean beaches between forest-covered headlands.
Next is Rotorua, an exciting city with a vast history, tradition and culture. It is surrounded by volcanoes, lakes, parks and is a great place to go hiking or to view native birds and animals. The surrounding areas are a geothermal wonderland, with geysers, boiling mud pools, and steaming craters. Rotorua is also a showcase of Maori cultural activities and a place of exceptional natural beauty.
Next travel to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, also known as the arts and culture capital. A special blend of heritage buildings, museums and galleries, fine food and live entertainment. The central city is nestled between a beautiful harbour and forested hills. Wildlife sanctuaries, islands, seaside villages, ocean beaches and regional parks provide huge scope for outdoor fun.
Christchurch is next, known as the "Garden City", located on the east coast of the South Island. Christchurch - just like the rest of New Zealand - is a city of contrasts. It is a place where its residents continue to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle amidst a natural environment world-renowned for its beauty. A growing cosmopolitan ambience also adds a touch of excitement without overt flashiness. Everywhere there is an understated elegance that speaks of times gone by and promises a future where anything is possible.
Then to Queenstown, which is known as the Adventure Capital of the World. A reputation earned through the actions of a number of locally residing thrill seekers who have developed several unbelievable, adrenalin stirring, sanity-reducing adventures in a wildly exciting environment. Queenstown has, over the years, quietly expanded into all sorts of attractions, including new wineries, art galleries, arts trails and challenging golf courses.
Features
![Midwest Diving Specialists Opt 3 [CD1157C]](http://www.aboutaustralia.com/a2it_package/images/travel/NZD1tutukaka.jpg)
- Accommodation - Tutukaka (5 Nights), Auckland (1 Night), Rotorua (1 Night), Wellington (1 Night), Christchurch (2 night), Queenstown (4 Nights)
- International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland, Auckland to Los Angeles
- New Zealand Domestic Flights - Rotorua to Wellington, Christchurch to Queenstown, Queenstown to Auckland
- Day Tours - 4 Days of Diving with Dive Tututkaka, Deluxe Coach Tour from Auckland to Rotorua, Interislander Tranz Coastal Cruise to Picton, Train Journey from Picton to Christchurch
- Shuttle Transfers - Auckland Airport to Tutukaka Accommodation, Daily transfers between Tutukaka Accomodation & Dive Center, Tutukaka Accommodation to Auckland Hotel, Rotorua Hotel to Airport, Wellington Airport to Accommodation, Christchurch Accommodation to Airport, Queenstown Airport to Accommodation (return)
- All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
- This is an Organized Group Tour
- All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
- Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Detailed Itinerary
- 2nd March 2012 Day 1 (Fri) - International Flight from Los Angeles to Auckland
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Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Auckland.
Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep! - Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).
- 4th Mar Day 2 (Sun) - Shuttle Transfer from Auckland Airport to Accommodation
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Travel from Auckland Airport to your vacation accommodation in Tutukaka, New Zealand.
- Need to Know
For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each. - 4th - 9th Mar Day 2 - 5 (Sun to Fri) - 5 Nights Accommodation Tutukaka
- Travel to your accommodation in Tutukaka, New Zealand where you will be staying for 5 nights.
- The resort overlooks the whole of the Tutukaka Harbour with a breathtaking ocean panorama across the deep sea fishing grounds from the historic Poor Knights Islands to the Hen and Chicken Islands. A coastal area where man and nature combine to provide a whole host of things to do, swimming, boating, fishing, surfing, scuba diving, sight-seeing, line fishing trips, deep sea fishing, exciting beaches to discover and explore.
- 5th -8th Mar Day 3 to 6 (Mon to Thur) - Dive with Dive Tutukaka
- Go diving with Dive Tutukaka New Zealand's premier full-service dive charter operator.
- Dive Tutukaka is New Zealand's premier full-service dive charter operator. The Poor Knights Islands are on Jacques Cousteau's list of top 10 dive sites in the world! The turbulent sunlit waters and kelp forests on the upper reaches of the tumbling 'giant staircase', to the waters of the islands' many caves, offer an extraordinary variety of underwater experiences. There are sponge gardens and gorgonian fields inhabited by a myriad of fish, shellfish, urchins and anemones. The islands' famous arches are fascinating to explore. In the warmer months, stingrays can be seen cruising the waters of the archways.
- 9th Mar Day 7 (Fri) - Shuttle Transfer from Tutukaka to Auckland
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Travel from your vacation accommodation in Tutukaka, New Zealand, to Auckland Airport.
- Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.
- 9th - 10th Mar Days 7 - 8 (Fri to Sat) - 1 Night Accommodation in Auckland
- Travel to your accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.
- Auckland is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world– renowned as that 'City Of Sails.' Dramatic landscapes and seascapes provide a diverse playground in which a compelling range of attractions are available. Visitors come to enjoy an array of exciting entertainment, leisure, culture and dining possibilities in New Zealand's largest city.
- 10th Mar Day 8 (Sat) - Luxury Coach Tour to Rotorua - Full Day - One Way
- Experience New Zealand's rich cultural heritage and the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, plus a trip through the famous glowworm caves at Waitomo, on this full day sightseeing tour by deluxe luxury coach.
- Depart Auckland: Travel the main Southern Highway through small rural townships steeped in early pioneer history. Your host serves morning tea during this sector.
Waikato: Travel through New Zealand's largest dairy and sheep farming province. See the small farming settlements on the outskirts of Hamilton City, as you travel towards King Country, birthplace of the Maori Monarchy.
Waitomo Glow Worm Caves: Join a guided tour through this world-famous cave formation, climaxed by drifting silently in a boat through a glow worm cavern lit up with thousands of tiny glow worm lights.
Light Lunch: Served on-board as we make our way to Rotorua through magnificent rural farmland with its vast numbers of grazing animals.
Rotorua: New Zealand's highest city, 305 meters (1000 feet) above sea level, located inside the rim of a volcanic crater. An area of great geothermal activity where you will visit the following attractions:
Agrodome Farm Tour: An introduction to New Zealand farming, with a 45-minute tour of an authentic working farm in all-weather, all-terrain vehicles. Watch a sheep being shorn and hand-feed the animals.
Lake Rotorua: Drive through the foreshore park past the hundreds of ducks and swans. Then travel through the beautiful historic Government Gardens.
Te Puia Institute (Maori Arts, Crafts & Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve): One of Rotorua's most famous attractions. See woodcarving, weaving displays, Maori village and the thermal valley with the famous Pohutu Geyser, fumaroles, colourful silica deposits and boiling mud pools.
This tour ends in Rotorua. - 10th - 11th Mar Day 8 - 9 (Sat to Sun) 1 Night Accommodation Rotorua
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Travel to your accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.
- Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua your accommodation is only a short walk to the city centre, convention centre, cafes and restaurants. Here in the heartland of New Zealand's Maori culture you'll experience an enveloping warmth, proud spirit, deep sense of history and a quick humour. Picturesque cobbled and lantern lined streetways and striking Tudor architecture celebrates New Zealand's significant colonial history. Travel the region by mountain bike or participate in local bush walks.
Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room - 11th Mar Day 9 (Sun) - Shuttle Transfer to Rotorua Airport
- Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, to Napier.
- Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.
- 11th Mar Day 9 cont (Sun) - Domestic Flight from Rotorua to Wellington
- Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Rotorua to Wellington (North Island).
- 11th Mar Day 9 cont (Sun) - ShuttleTransfer from Airport to Wellington Accommodation
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Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Wellington, New Zealand.
- Need to Know
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each. - 11th -12th Mar Day 9 - 10 (Sun to Mon) - 1 Night Accommodation in Wellington
- Travel to your accommodation in Wellington, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.
- Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is located conveniently in the heart of Wellington, New Zealand. It is a short walk from Westpac Stadium, Te Papa Museum and the waterfront. Your vacation hotel has a direct elevator to Lambton Quay via a shopping arcade. Travel to New Zealand's top wine regions, Wairarapa and Marlborough, which are only a short drive away. Or participate in adventure activities such as mountain biking, sailing, bushwalking and much more.
Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand - 12th Mar Day 10 (Mon) - Interisland Ferry from Wellington to Picton
- The 92 km journey across Cook Strait between Wellington (North Island) and Picton (South Island) takes only 3 hours and has been described as "one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world".
- Make your way from Wellington to Picton aboard one of 3 amazing ferries and take in the spectacular views along the way. See the South Island's Kaikoura ranges and have the opportunity to spot dolphins and sea birds.
Operates
Daily
Departs multiple times beginning at 2:00am.
Includes
- Tranport from the North Island to the South Island
- Beautiful views
- Complimentary internet, newspapers, magazines, beer, wine, tea, coffee, & snacks
Need to Know
Food court, bar, Movie Theatre, and shops are at your own expense. - 12th Mar Day 10 (Mon) - Travel by Train from Picton to Christchurch
- The Coastal Pacific train journey travels between the delightful port of Picton and Christchurch.
This 5.5 hour scenic feast is one of the world's most scenic train journeys. The Coastal Pacific travels through 22 tunnels and crosses 175 bridges, one of them being New Zealand's only road-rail bridge.
This journey is a scenic feast of New Zealand, with the Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side of your train and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline on the other. Travel through some of New Zealand's finest horticultural and farmland areas, and see amazing wildlife such as dolphins, seals and penguins from the comfort of your train carriage.
Operates
February to end of April - Daily
May to late September - Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Late September to Mid December - Thursday through Sunday
There are seasonal block out dates, please check with your Destination Specialist
Connects with the Interislander 9:00am from Wellington
Connects with the 2:15pm Interislander from Picton
Includes
- Train from Picton to Christchurch
- Spectacular views
Need to Know
If a seat is required for an infant, a separate seat at the child rate must be purchased. Cafe is at own expense.
Photo Credit: KiwiRail Limited- 12th Mar Day 10 (Mon) - Taxi from Railway Station to Christchurch Accommodation (pay as you go)
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Taxi or ride share transfer as per your own arrangements (pay as you go).
Uber is available in most major cities.
Other ride share options are:
-Ola
-DiDi
-Shebah - 12th - 14th Mar Day 10 - 11 (Mon to Wed) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Christchurch
- Travel to your accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.
- Your 3 Star vacation accommodation in Christchurch, is located on New Zealand's South Island. Superbly situated in the very heart of this historic garden city, your accommodation in Christchurch is located just off Cathedral Square. Close to cafes, restaurants, museums and many of Christchurch's most popular attractions. It is the newest hotel in the city and offers 155 spacious guest rooms, a modern bar and restaurant as well and an intimate meeting room. All rooms feature views overlooking the city as well as broadband internet access.
- 13th Mar Day 11 (Tues) - Free Day to Explore Christchurch
- Free time to rest, relax or explore.
- Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Alpine Safari
- See the spectacular mountain vistas of Arthur's Pass National Park and immerse yourself in New Zealand's high country scenery on this journey through the South Island. You'll discover breathtaking mountain landscapes and alpine forests on personal, up close encounters most people never get to witness.
- Your day begins with a hotel pick up to the train station for boarding on the famous TranzAlpine train, rated one of the top six train journeys in the world. This scenic rail experience takes you westward across the rich agricultural belt of the Canterbury Plains, river canyons, tunnels and viaducts to the grand mountains of the Southern Alps and Arthur's Pass.
At Arthur's Pass village you will meet your guide, a friendly and professional tour leader who will give you profound insight into each stop of the day. You will have the opportunity to:
- View the pristine Waimakariri River and its unique braided river system
- Explore the alpine forest, crystal rivers and mountain vistas on short walks through Arthur's Pass National Park
- Enjoy lunch at a historic high country hotel
- Follow the old stage coach route and view the spectacular Otira Gorge, a testament to the road builders of the 1860’s and the route taken by the Maori in their quest for greenstone
- Visit Cave Stream, where underground limestone cliffs, gorges and craggy outcrops await to be discovered. This area was also used for the filming of C.S. Lewis’s – “The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe”
- Visit the incredible Castle Hill rocks, unique rock formations and sacred landmarks to the Maori
Your journey ends with a deluxe mini van trip back to Christchurch, traveling via sub-alpine Porter's Pass and the Canterbury Plains. - Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Highlights Tour
- Join this 'must do' tour of historical places, spectacular sights and beautiful parks with informative commentary by your driver guide
- Tour highlights the Central Landmarks in Christchurch Including Cathedral Square, Town Hall, Bridge of Remembrance, Christ's College and original Provincial Government buildings.
Also included are:
THE AVON RIVER: Travel along the banks of this beautiful tree lined waterway.
CANTERBURY MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY: Pause for a short time to view the Maori and European exhibits on display.
MONA VALE: Walk through these beautiful gardens past the magnificent mansion located alongside the Avon River. In summer months see a stunning rose display planted for the international Rose World Conference held in 1994.
SIGN OF THE TAKAHE: Travel via Hagley Park up to the Port Hills through the exclusive hillside residential area of Cashmere, stopping at this famous landmark for views across the Canterbury Plains (on clear days).
Tour Operated daily and includes pickup from hotel and return. 1/2 Day tour.
Photo Credit: Christchurch City Libraries - Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Lord of the Rings
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Journey to the remote and beautiful Mt Potts high country station, home of Mt Sunday.
See how this peaceful mountain was transformed into Edoras, the capital city of the Rohan people in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Immerse yourself in the natural unspoilt beauty of the high country's sparkling clear lakes, glistening blue rivers and fresh mountain air.
This amazing day out includes 4WD access onto Mt Sunday/Edoras itself, a delicious champagne picnic lunch, full running commentary from our friendly and knowledgeable Kiwi tour guides and spectacular scenery you will never forget. You don't have to be a Lord of the Rings fan to enjoy this amazing day out!
Operates
Daily
Departs 9:00am and returns 4:30pm (approx.)
Includes
- 4WD adventure through several small streams and right onto Edoras itself
- Short guided wlk to stand on the summit of Edoras and enjoy as Eowyn did
- Behind the scenes photos of Edoras under construction
- See the Misty Mountains and the area that formed the backdrop to Helms Deep
- Picnic lunch
- Informative and entertaining commentary from local Kiwi guides
- The opportunity to handle movie replicas
- Selection of merchandise available for purchase
Need to Know
This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form. Pick ups and drop offs occur at the Canterbury Museum, please find your own way there.- Insider's Tip: Tram Tour Tip
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Tram Tour of Christchurch
- The 2.5 kilometre track takes about 25-minutes to complete and allows you to take in many of the "must see" attractions. These include Cathedral Square, Aquarium of Discovery, The Arts Centre, The Art Gallery, Botanical Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Punting on the Avon, New Regent Street and Cathedral Junction to name just a few.
The last tram leaves Cathedral Square 30 minutes prior to closing time. - Insider's Tip: Cathedral Square Tip
- Mingle with visitors and locals alike at the heart of Christchurch, Cathedral Square.
- Take a short walk from your hotel to Cathedral Square, the heart of Christchurch. Located at the centre of the "four avenues" that form the boundaries of inner Christchurch and directly in front of the Christ Church Cathedral, the Square is home to public orators and entertainers and surrounded by historic buildings, including the old city post office. There are many restaurants, bars and cinemas all in the vicinity along with regular markets and several food stalls.
Cathedral Square is home to several historic Christchurch landmarks including The Godley Statue which was the first ever public statue in New Zealand. Erected in honor of the founder of Canterbury and cast from the metal of Russian guns used in the Crimean War the visit to this work of art is sure to be a memorable one! Be sure to check out a new addition, The Chalice. This hard to miss sculpture will be the towering inverted cone alongside the Cathedral. Including a World War One memorial, a four lime tree tribute to the four ships of Canterbury and the seven tree gift from the US Navy, The Square is definitely a place to pause and check out what Christchurch is about! - 14th Mar Day 12 (Wed) - Shuttle Transfer from Christchurch Hotel to Airport
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Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand, to the Airport.
- Need to Know
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each. - 14th Mar Day 12 Cont (Wed) - Domestic Flight from Christchurch to Queenstown
- Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Christchurch to Queenstown (South Island).
- 14th Mar Day 12 Cont (Wed) - Shuttle Transfer from Queenstown Airport to Accommodation
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Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand.
- Need to Know
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each. - 14th - 18th Mar Day 12 - 16 (Wed to Sun) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Queenstown
- Travel to your accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 nights.
- Your vacation accommodation is located near the shores of Lake Wakatipu, and only 3 minutes drive from the centre of town. The hotel features rooms most of which have spectacular views over the lake and the remarkable mountain range. Facilities include a range of hotel amenities that invite those who want to relax from their travel. These include an outdoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, gymnasium, restaurant, bar, conference rooms and a ski and boot drying room. A convenient shuttle service to the town centre is also available at own expense. Travel and explore the surroundings by visiting New Zealand's Milford Sound, Central Otago Wineries. For the nature lover, maybe enjoy a nice stroll on walking trails that meander along the lakes shores. In the evening perhaps dine whilst enjoying a Maori Concert and see powerful performances of The Haka and other songs of New Zealand custom.
Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room - 15th - 17th Mar Days 13, 14 & 15 (Thur to Sat) - Free Days to Explore Queenstown
- Free time to rest, relax or explore.
- Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Doubtful Sound
- Doubtful Sound is a beautiful fiord; three times longer than Milford Sound and a surface area ten times larger with twisting arms. With its rugged peaks, verdant rainforest and twisting, hidden inlets, Doubtful Sound will take your breath away.
The only way you can to get to Doubtful Sound is to cruise across the picturesque Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus trip over Wilmot Pass - New Zealand's most expensive (and majestic) road.
Pause along the way to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest and view Doubtful Sound glistening below. This isolation makes this fiord a very special place, only those in the know get to see.
Once you arrive, you will board the Patea Explorer for a 3-hour cruise on Doubtful Sound - a spectacular pristine fiord. During the cruise, your knowledgeable and friendly skipper or nature guide will share with you their passion for the region. They’re always ready to answer questions, point out landmarks and provide all the information about the varied wildlife you may see, including dolphins, fur seals, and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.
Following the cruise, return to your Queenstown hotel by luxury coach.
Operates:
Daily
Departs 6:55am, Returns 7:30pm (approx.)
Includes:
- Transport by coach to/from Queenstown accommodation
- Lake cruise
- Fjord cruise
- Wildlife viewing
- Insightful commentary by nature guide
Need to Know:
Wear waterproof/warm clothing and non-slip shoes. Please bring sunglasses, sunscreen and camera. Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility. Because of the length of the tour, please bring a packed lunch. Food and drink available for purchase onboard.
Photo Credit: Tourism Media- Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Gondola Ride
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One of the first sights to captivate visitors to Queenstown is the distinctive outline of the Skyline complex high above town.
Located an easy 5 minute walk from central Queenstown and exclusively accessed by scenic gondola, Skyline Gondola, Restaurant & Luge is a must-see attraction during your visit to Queenstown. The best views in the region are found here, spread out in a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkable mountain range and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peaks. It's truly magnificent and awe-inspiring!
Of course there's more to do than just admire the view! For an additional cost you can:- Enjoy a dinner or relax in the bar in the Skyline Stratosfare Restaurant. Casual dining is also available during the day in the Cafe.
- Thrill seekers can hurtle down the winding downhill Skyline Luge. Purpose built Luge carts put you in complete control as you take on a half-mile of banked corners, tunnels and dippers. Once you’ve conquered the course, hop on the chairlift and do it all again, and again, and again! Gentle and leisurely or steep and adventurous, you'll be hooked.
- Explore the southern night sky of Queenstown with a guided tour of the galaxy and learn about the stars, nebulae and planets that make up our solar system and beyond.
Ask your Destination Specialist about available combo packages to make your day at Skyline more enjoyable.
Various walking tracks can also be accessed from Skyline, from an easy 30 minute walk to a full day hike.
Operates
Daily. Stratosfare Restaurant closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Gondola rides operate from 9:30am to 8:30pm Monday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday. Gondola rides operate from 9:30am to 6:30pm Tuesday & Wednesday. Saturday operation hours are 8:50am to 8:30pm.
Includes
- Gondola ride
Need to Know
Gondola ride is approximately 7-10 minutes one way.
Upgrades
- Add a thrilling luge ride to your Gondola experience.
- Add the Taste of New Zealand buffet at Stratosfare Restaurant
- Stargazing evening event- Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Dart River Safari
- This jet boat adventure offers your senses a feast of spectacular natural beauty on a journey into the wilderness of the World Heritage-listed Mt. Aspiring National Park.
Your day begins with 1.5 hour journey on a jet boat through the Dart River system. You'll be surrounded by beautiful snow-covered peaks, hidden valleys & waterfalls. Your day includes a guided walk (30 minutes) along the 'Heritage Trail' at Paradise. Your guide will provide you with informative & entertaining commentary about the ancient native beech forest. The forests of this region sit within a World Heritage Area, one of the only natural sites of its kind that is accessible to the public.
Your guide details the fascinating history of this area from the days of Gondwanaland, to quests by Maori for prized pounamu, to the present-day efforts of New Zealand's department of conservation for the preservation of the area. On the ride home, you will stop to view the epic backdrop for many international movies, including 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy.
Dart River Wilderness Safari is a high-country adventure. To ensure that your experience is truly enjoyable, please: Dress warmly and wear comfortable walking shoes, regardless of season or weather. Bring sunglasses, a sunhat and sunscreen (insect repellent could also be useful in some weather conditions). Note that cameras are carried at customer's risk.
Tour itself is approximately 3 hours.
Operates
Daily. Does not operate on Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.
Departs Queentown 8:30am
Departs Glenorchy 9:30am
Includes
- Highly experienced professional driver and guide
- Thrilling ride on a modern, well maintained twin engine jet boat
- Life jackets
- Transport from central Queenstown location or Glenorchy central location
Need to Know
This experience is not suitable for pregnant women, those with specific medical conditions, including people who suffer from back or neck injuries. Children must be at least 3 years old to join tour. Warm layers of clothing are recommended, including waterproof jacket, sturdy footwear and sunglasses. A small bag can be carried with you for the entire duration of the tour, should you require any extra items.- Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Wine Tour
- Enjoy an afternoon exploring some of the award winning wineries in the Queenstown region.
Take this afternoon tour and experience the true flavor of our local pinot noir and other wine varietals at three premium vineyards. Enjoy a guided tour through the vines and into New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave. This relaxing tour travels just a short distance from Queenstown where you will be given in-depth wine tastings and presentation at each vineyard.
You have plenty of time to unwind and get yourself a winery lunch (own expense) or sample a selection of local cheeses, craft beer, coffee (there is an opportunity to substitute wine tasting for beer at time of booking).
Operates
Daily (except Christmas, Boxing Day, Good Friday, & Easter)
Departs 12:00pm and Returns 4:30pm (approx.)
Includes
- Return transfers from hotel
- Hosted tasting at 3 wineries
- Underground wine cave tour
- 12+ wine tastings
Need to Know
Please bring money for Winery lunch. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.
Upgrades
Private Wine & Food
Photo Credit: Southern Public Relations- Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - TSS Earslaw
- Relive the elegance of bygone days with a 1.5 hour cruise aboard a vintage steamship.
Your trip will take you across the lake, past the Remarkables mountain range and Cecil Peak, to Walter Peak High Country Farm. (You can choose to add a Walter Peak Farm Tour, a gourmet long lunch/dinner, or simply cruise back to Queenstown Bay. A visit to the engine room reveals the giant steam engines at work. Close by you can view the collection of historical photos in the mini museum, check out the bridge or, if you’d rather, kick back and enjoy a wine or beer or some café food at the on-board Promenade Café and Bar (not included). The TSS Earnslaw has carried many famous visitors, including Queen Elizabeth, Prince Phillip and even President Bill Clinton. Undoubtedly, this iconic tour is one not to miss.
Operates:
Daily (except Christmas Day and not operating from 20MAY to 30JUN)
Starts multiple times daily from 12:00pm to 7:00pm (1.5 Hour Tour)
Includes:
- Return cruise on the TSS Earnslaw
Need to know:
Licensed bar available aboard the TSS Earnslaw (Food and drinks not included). Substitute vessel used during 15May-26Jun maintenance period. Please bring non-slip shoes/boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, warm clothing and camera.
Upgrades:
Can upgrade experience to include a Walter Peak Farm tour or include a New Zealand BBQ lunch or dinner.
Photo Credit: Real Journeys- 18th Mar Day 16 (Sun) - Shuttle Transfer from Queenstown Accommodation to Airport
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Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, to the Airport.
- Need to Know
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each. - 18th Mar Day 16 cont (Sun) - Domestic Flight Queenstown to Auckland
- Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Queenstown to Auckland (North Island).
- 18th Mar Day 16 cont (Sun) - International Flight, Auckland to Los Angeles
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Today depart Auckland and fly to the USA. Enjoy an in-flight dinner and movie with arrival in the USA. Note: you will be traveling back across the International Date Line. Gain that day back you lost on the way over, you actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Auckland.
Note: Flight may include a stop over in Australia. -
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