Tour New Zealand, Milford Sound Tours, South Island, Rotorua, Nelson, Queenstown
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40 Be amazed by the incredible geothermal wonders in Rotorua Day 1. Arrive Auckland, Freedom of Choice. Be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Then, choose from a range of Freedom of Choice Sightseeing activities including an Auckland city tour; a Bush & Beach Wilderness Adventure; a cruise on Waitemata Harbour; or a visit to a sea aquarium. Tonight, get to know your fellow travellers and APT Tour Director during a Welcome Dinner. Stay: Rendezvous Grand Hotel Auckland. FD Day 2. Auckland, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua, Hangi Feast. Leaving Auckland, travel to the enchanting Waitomo caves. Take a silent boat ride through a mystical grotto, lit by thousands of tiny glowworms. Afterwards, continue to Rotorua, a centre of Maori culture famous for its geothermal activity. Tonight, experience traditional and ancient Maori customs as you enjoy a delicious Hangi Feast and Maori song and dance. Two Night Stay: Holiday Inn Rotorua. B, FD Day 3. Rotorua, Freedom of Choice. In Rotorua, you'll enjoy the opportunity to explore the region in your own way as you are able to choose from a range of activities. You might like to see New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool during an eco-thermal tour; get an insight into the making of a blockbuster film with a visit to Hobbiton from the famous 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy; a trip to Rotorua Museum will showcase local art and history; or head out on a Rotorua tour which includes a Kiwi Encounter. B Day 4. Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Freedom of Choice. Follow the Thermal Explorer Highway through the heart of the North Island and see spectacular Huka Falls. Then experience the tranquil setting of Lake Taupo. Cross the vast volcanic plateau of Tongariro National Park to Wellington, where you'll enjoy a choice of three restaurants. Two Night Stay: Amora Hotel Wellington. B, FD Day 5. Wellington. Set off on a sightseeing tour of the New Zealand capital. You'll explore New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa. Its collection spans the areas of Art, History, Pacific, Maori, and Natural Environment. Afterwards, take in fantastic views as you ride Wellington's iconic Cable Car. B Day 6. Wellington, Kaikoura, Christchurch. Step aboard the Interislander ferry to cruise across Cook Strait and on to Picton at the tip of the South Island. Rejoin your coach and journey through the stunning landscapes of Marlborough, to Christchurch. Stay: Christchurch, Commodore Hotel. BD Day 7. Christchurch, TranzAlpine Train, Franz Josef Glacier. Board the TranzAlpine train for a trip through breathtaking landscapes. Disembark at Arthur's Pass and continue to Hokitika. You'll also experience the lush rainforest and breathtaking valley of the Franz Josef Glacier. Check in to your luxury eco-resort before you enjoy a four-course degustation dinner. APT HIGHLIGHT! Stay: Franz Josef Glacier, Te Waonui Forest Retreat. B, FD Day 8. Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown, Freedom of Choice. View magnificent scenery today as you travel along the rugged west coast to Haast and continue to Queenstown. Tonight, choose from four great dining options. Two Night Stay: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside. B, FD Day 9. Queenstown, Freedom of Choice. Today, explore Queenstown in your own way, with a Freedom of Choice Sightseeing Inclusion. These include a Dart River Safari adventure; a chance to see where scenes from 'Lord of the Rings' was filmed; a 4WD experience at Mt Nicholas; or a bird walk. B 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 3 accommodation and afternoon touring. Please enquire for details. New Zealand Highlighter 14 Day Luxury Escorted Journey Auckland | Rotorua | Wellington | Franz Josef Glacier | Queenstown | Mt Cook | Christchurch www.aptouring.com.au