2016/17 - APT New Zealand

28 Day 1. Arrive Auckland. Your journey begins today on arrival into Auckland. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your stylish and comfortable hotel. Two Night Stay: Rendezvous Grand Hotel Auckland. Day 2. Auckland, Freedom of Choice. After a morning at leisure, enjoy your selected sightseeing activity in the 'City of Sails' as you choose from a range of exciting sightseeing inclusions. Perhaps take a cruise on Waitemata Harbour, head off on a Waiheke Island wine tour, or explore the Auckland Museum. Alternatively, get up close to the fascinating marine life at Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium, or set off on a Wilderness Adventure into the Waitakere Rainforest. Others may prefer to take a trip to the harbourside suburb of Devonport, which has great views of the city. BD Day 3. Auckland, Bay of Islands. Cross Auckland's busy Harbour Bridge this morning and travel along the Hibiscus Coast. Stop at Matakohe's Kauri Museum for an insight into the rich pioneering history of New Zealand's Northland region. Continue to the stunning Bay of Islands and visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the original treaty between the British and Maori people was signed. Here, you'll also enjoy a visit to the Maori Meeting House and War Canoe. Two Night Stay: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands, in a room with harbour views. BD Day 4. Bay of Islands, Freedom of Choice. Today, discover this spectacular region with a choice of activities. Perhaps take a day tour to Cape Reinga, New Zealand's northernmost point or maybe experience life aboard a tall ship, you could embark on a dolphin watching adventure or take a mini-tour of Russell. Alternatively return to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for an enriching guided tour. B Day 5. Bay of Islands, Auckland. Explore the spectacular Bay of Islands on a dolphin-watching cruise to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. In these deep-sea fishing grounds, dolphins are frequently seen. Meander through the inner islands, admiring the picturesque sandy beaches and rocky outcrops, then relax for some time in a secluded bay. This evening, back in Auckland, you'll be treated to a special Pacific-themed dinner with New Zealand produce at the Rendezvous Grand Hotel. Stay: Rendezvous Grand Hotel Auckland. B, FD Day 6. Auckland, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua, Hangi Feast. Travel to Waitomo, home to the famous glowworm caves where thousands of tiny luminescent creatures radiate an eerie glow. Discover this natural wonder on a guided tour, before continuing to Rotorua. This evening, immerse yourself in Maori culture as you enjoy a traditional Hangi Feast and performance of song and dance. Two Night Stay: Holiday Inn Rotorua, overlooking Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. B, FD Day 7. Rotorua, Freedom of Choice. Following breakfast this morning, enjoy your chosen Freedom of Choice sightseeing inclusion. Perhaps discover the icons of Rotorua at the Agrodome Farm Show followed by Rainbow Springs, a kiwi encounter, and a visit to the Te Puia Thermal Reserve. Alternatively, experience Middle-earth during a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set and gain an enthralling insight into the making of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Other options include a drive through forest and farmland to visit New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool and colourful hot springs, or learning about the local art, history and culture at Rotorua Museum, located in the historic Bath House building. B Stunning scenery abounds across the Bay of Islands and Waitangi Treaty Grounds ROTORUA COUNTRY HOMESTAY Perhaps experience day-to-day life in New Zealand's countryside, and enjoy a home-cooked dinner and breakfast prepared by your hosts. This experience is available to APT guests at no extra cost and replaces Day 7 accommodation and afternoon touring. Please enquire for details. Royal Tourer New Zealand 18 Day Luxury Escorted Journey Auckland | Bay of Islands | Rotorua | Queenstown | Milford Sound | Mount Cook www.aptouring.com.au

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