Tour New Zealand, Milford Sound Tours, South Island, Rotorua, Nelson, Queenstown
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36 Discover the snow-capped mountains and turquoise lakes within the South Island's National Parks Day 1. Arrive Auckland. This morning arrive in Auckland, 'The City of Sails'. You'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of today is at leisure to relax and settle in, or begin exploring this wonderful city. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner with your APT Tour Director and fellow travellers. Two Night Stay: Crowne Plaza, Auckland. FD Day 2. Auckland, Freedom of Choice. After breakfast today, you'll enjoy the freedom to choose from a range of included sightseeing activities here in Auckland. Hop aboard one of the yachts in the Pride of Auckland fleet and enjoy a magical cruise on Waitemata Harbour. Or, discover the diverse artistic legacy and cultures of New Zealand at the Auckland Museum. Enjoy an up-close encounter with giant sharks, eels and scores of fish at Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium, or delight in a Waiheke Wine Tour, or Devonport Explorer. B Day 3. Auckland, Bay of Islands. From Auckland, enjoy a scenic drive to Paihia. Upon arrival, step aboard a catamaran and cruise to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Hear about the ecology and history of the area as you keep an eye out for local marine life, including common and bottlenose dolphins. Two Night Stay: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands. BD Day 4. Bay of Islands, Freedom of Choice. The Bay of Islands is home to an incredible 144 islands and is a wonderland for lovers of all things aquatic. As 'the birthplace of New Zealand', the area teems with history. After breakfast, enjoy your selected sightseeing activity. Embark on a tall ship sailing adventure, take a dolphin watching eco-cruise, or enjoy a guided tour of Waitangi. Perhaps cruise to Russell, or visit Cape Reinga. B Day 5. Bay of Islands, Rotorua. Follow the east coast Pacific Ocean Drive from Paihia through Whangarei and head south through Warkworth. Admire the breathtaking view over Waitemata Harbour as you cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Travel through the lush Waikato farmland to Cambridge and then Matamata enjoy a taste of New Zealand rural life with a tour and dinner at Longlands Farm. After dinner, continue to Rotorua. Two Night Stay: Millennium Hotel, Rotorua. B, FD Day 6. Rotorua, Freedom of Choice. Choose your activity today. Enjoy a sheep show at the Agrodome followed by a visit to Te Puia Thermal Reserve. Perhaps set out on a Kiwi Encounter, or visit Wai-O-Tapu. See some of the sets from the 'Lord of the Rings'. Alternatively visit Rotorua Museum. This evening, the Tamaki Maori Village welcomes you as we experience the dance, music and culture of the Maori people at a traditional Hangi Feast and village experience. B, FD Day 7. Rotorua, Taupo, Napier. This morning, you'll depart Rotorua and stop at the charming town of Taupo, set alongside New Zealand's largest lake and boasting stunning views. After taking in the surrounds of Taupo, continue through Esk Valley and Te Pohue to the seaside city of Napier. Here, you'll take a step back in time and enjoy a 1930s Art Deco High Tea experience, complete with vintage table settings and delicious treats. Stay: Napier, Scenic Hotel Te Pania. B, FHT, D Day 8. Napier, Wellington, Freedom of Choice. Today's drive takes you through scenic Waipukurau and Woodville and over the Rimutaka Ranges. Travel past the historic towns of Greytown and Masterton then arrive in New Zealand's vibrant capital city – Wellington. This evening, you'll be able to discover the tantalising flavours of New Zealand with a choice from three tempting restaurants in which to dine. APT HIGHLIGHT! Two Night Stay: InterContinental, Wellington. B, FD Day 9. Wellington, Freedom of Choice. Experience the capital's many delights during your selected touring activity and explore the city in your own way. There's a chance to learn about New Zealand's incredible natural history through the fascinating exhibitions at Zealandia, or perhaps explore the Carter Observatory and Planetarium complete with a ride on Wellington's iconic Cable Car. Take in the city's highlights, or fans of Middle Earth might like to explore the magical areas of Wellington that feature in the 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy. The choice is yours. B Magnificent New Zealand 23 Day Luxury Escorted Journey Bay of Islands | Rotorua | Napier | Blenheim | Queenstown | Milford Sound | Mt Cook www.aptouring.com.au