Tour New Zealand, Milford Sound Tours, South Island, Rotorua, Nelson, Queenstown
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37 MAGNIFICENT NEW ZEALAND Day 10. Wellington, Blenheim. This morning board the Interislander ferry and cross Cook Strait. This ferry journey is one of the most picturesque cruises in the world. Disembark in Picton on the South Island and continue to Blenheim. This evening enjoy A Taste of Marlborough Dinner. Two Night Stay: Blenheim, Scenic Hotel Marlborough. B, FD Day 11. Blenheim, Freedom of Choice. Choose from three exciting sightseeing inclusions in Blenheim today. Perhaps learn about historic aircraft on a tour of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. You may like to enjoy the natural beauty of the Marlborough Sounds during a greenshell mussel cruise, or visit some of region's best wineries on a half-day tour. B Day 12. Blenheim, Kaikoura, Christchurch. Follow the rugged east coast of New Zealand's South Island to Kaikoura, where the unique combination of mountains and ocean creates a stunning contrast. Here, perhaps take in a scenic whale watching flight (own expense). Continue to Christchurch. Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch. BD Day 13. Christchurch, TranzAlpine Train, Franz Josef Glacier. Today is sure to be a highlight of your holiday as you join New Zealand's famous TranzAlpine train. Prepare to experience one of the world's greatest train journeys as you voyage from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass. Journey through the striking patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains, before travelling through deep gorges, river valleys and across the Southern Alps within Arthur's Pass National Park. Reboard your coach at Arthur's Pass and set out for Hokitika, a town rich in jade greenstone. Here, see Pounamu (jade) being carved into jewellery. Later, continue along the dramatic west coast into Westland National Park, home to the magnificent Franz Josef Glacier. Take in the stunning alpine scenery in this impressive World Heritage Area. Check in to your luxury eco-resort before enjoying a four-course degustation dinner this evening. APT HIGHLIGHT! Stay: Franz Josef Glacier, Te Waonui Forest Retreat. B, FD Day 14. Franz Josef Glacier, Wanaka, Queenstown. Enjoy a day of truly breathtaking scenery as you travel to Queenstown. This morning, cross the spectacular Haast Pass and Franz Josef Glacier 1 2 Blenheim Kaikoura Milford Sound Auckland Bay of Islands Wellington Rotorua Christchurch Napier Mt Cook Queenstown Dunedin Haast Arthur's Pass Te Anau Lake Tekapo Oamaru Hokitika Picton Taupo 1 1 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 Coach Cruise Cruise route TranzAlpine Train No. of nights stay National Park skirt around the shores of lakes Wanaka and Hawea. See the vistas and surrounding mountains that shift moods with the seasons. View historic mining sites as we travel through the beautiful Kawarau Gorge and meander through Cromwell. Pass the incredible orchards and vineyards that have been inspiring artists for decades before arriving in Queenstown where you'll stay for three nights in comfortable and stylish accommodation. Three Night Stay: Crowne Plaza, Queenstown. BD Day 15. Queenstown, Freedom of Choice. Personalise your holiday experience today, as you enjoy your chosen Freedom of Choice activity. 'Lord of the Rings' fans will jump at the chance to visit key filming locations, while thrillseekers will find the exhilarating Shotover jet boat ride tough to resist. Or, get back to nature with an enthralling lakeshore forest and bird watching walk complete with a delicious morning tea. Others may enjoy exploring the country's premier wine region – the choice is all yours. This evening, enjoy even more variety as you select from a range of Freedom of Choice Dining Inclusions. Perhaps sample the fresh produce at Finz fresh seafood restaurant located on Steamer Wharf. Alternatively, you might like to take a gondola ride to the Skyline Restaurant. Another option is to cruise to Walter Peak High Country Farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steamboat, and enjoy dinner at The Great Kiwi Carvery; or you may choose to dine amid the stylish surrounds of your hotel restaurant. B, FD Day 16. Queenstown. Immerse yourself in beautiful Queenstown as you enjoy a full day at leisure in this exciting city surrounded by majestic mountains. You may like to use this time to take a relaxing stroll along the tranquil shores of Lake Wakatipu, browse through the stores in the bustling central shopping district, or browse the arts and crafts on display in the city's many galleries, or visit a spa or wellness centre. Perhaps take advantage of being in the 'adventure capital of the world' and indulge in the thrill of a lifetime such as white-water rafting or a helicopter flight and get a birds eye view of this picturesque city, a truly exciting way to experience the sights (all own expense). B See why Auckland is called the 'city of sails' Sheep abound on verdant rolling pastures 40 MAX. GUESTS G U A R A N TE E D S M A L L E R G R O U P S