Wonders of New Zealand
Tour #TT3859

From Christchurch to Auckland featuring Queenstown and Milford, then up the West Coast to the glaciers and then Nelson. Wellington, Lake Taupo, Rotorua and Waitomo Caves.
Reports to 123 Worcester St at 8.00 am. Departs at 8.20 am EVERY DAY.


Day 1: Christchurch - Mt Cook - Queenstown
Across the Canterbury Plains and through Burke Pass to the MacKenzie Basin. Past milky blue Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki to Mt Cook National Park to see New Zealand s highest mountain. Optional lunch at The Hermitage hotel or perhaps a ski plane ride. Follow the Alps southward over Lindis Pass, along Lake Dunstan to Cromwell. The rocky and rugged Kawarau Gorge goldmining area, leads to world famous Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown. Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.

Day 2: Queenstown - Milford Sound - Queenstown
Alongside Lake Wakatipu to Kingston, then cross country to Te Anau and the beautiful Eglinton and Hollyford Valleys with their lush beech forests. Through the Homer Tunnel and down the awesome Cleddau Canyon before you cruise on magnificent Milford Sound, including Mitre Peak, rising nearly a
kilometre straight up out of the sea and Bowen Falls. Return to Queenstown for tonight s stay.

Day 3: At Queenstown
A full day for you to enjoy this fabulous resort - we have included the Skyline Gondola and the Kiwi Magic Movie in your tour. There are dozens of optional activities as well - thrilling jet boating on the rivers - white water rafting - helicopters through the river chasms - A.J.Hackett s world famous bungy jumping - cruises on the lake on the vintage "TSS Earnslaw" - high country sheep stations - gold panning - spectacular walking trails - the list is endless. Overnight in Queenstown.

Day 4: Queenstown - Glaciers
Back through the Kawarau Gorge to Lakes Hawea and Wanaka before climbing the forest lined Makarora valley to Haast Pass. Wind your way through towering mountain peaks and over rushing white water rivers into silent and remote South Westland. Head north through dense rain forest and alongside wild surf beaches to the Glaciers. Stay 2 nights at the Glaciers.

Day 5: At the Glacier
This morning you join the guided walk on the glacier - boots and poles supplied. The afternoon is free to explore the surrounding area.

Day 6: Glaciers - Greymouth
North along a narrow coastal strip passing forest, beaches, rivers and historic gold towns before reaching Greymouth. While in Greymouth you will join a number of local tours includidng a visit to a greenstone (jade) factory, the strange natural formations at Punakaiki rocks and the beautiful Paparoa National Park.

Day 7: Greymouth - Nelson
Travel north to the ghost town of Charleston where you turn inland. A spectacular drive up the steep rocky chasm and green waters of the Buller Gorge brings you to Inangahua junction. From there, follow the river valleys north to Wakefield and then over the hills to sunny Nelson. Stay two nights in Nelson.

Day 8: At Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park Tour
Your full day tour of this beautiful park includes pick up and drop off at your hotel. After a short coach journey, travel by launch (boat) from the golden sands of Kaiteriteri beach into the park. Cruise through the blue waters, next to lush native forests, marine life, and idyllic coves and inlets. There are many opportunities to walk in the park before returning to Nelson about 5 pm.

Day 9: Nelson - Picton - Wellington
Your coach takes you over the Whangamoa and Rai saddles to Blenheim and then onto Picton where you board one of the famous Interislander ferries. Cruise up the narrow forest fringed sound into Cook Strait. Enjoy the sun decks, bars, cafes and lounges as you look out for dolphins and whales before arriving in Wellington, the Capital. We have included an evening tour of some of Wellington's highlights including the unusual parliament buildings 'The Beehive' and some spectacular harbour and city views. Overnight in Wellington.

Day 10: Wellington - Rotorua
Leave the city for the rocky Kapiti coastline then the fertile Manawatu plains. Continue on to the Rangitikei area - impressive for its steep river valleys and tablelands. Climbing up to the volcanic plateau the huge mountains of Ruapehu, Ngaruahoe and Tongariro line your journey across 'The Desert Road'. Drop down to the deep blue waters of Lake Taupo and then travel through Wairakei's geothermal clouds and vast exotic forests which line the road to Rotorua. We recommend you attend a Maori hangi and concert tonight (optional). Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 11: At Rotorua
The half day Grand Tour is included. You will see roaring geysers, boiling mud pools and steaming lakes at the thermal area, tame trout and kiwi at the springs and performing sheep and dogs at the Agrodome. This afternoon is free - there are many activities to tempt you - such as bathing in the thermal waters. For a small additional cost you could stay on a farm tonight. Overnight in Rotorua.

Day 12: Rotorua - Waitomo - Auckland
After leaving Rotorua's volcanic charms, we travel to Waitomo Caves. A tour of the caves including the world famous glow worm grotto is included. Then on to Auckland via the Waikato Valley, Hamilton and the Bombay Hills. The coach arrives in Auckland at 5.10 pm.