Tour New Zealand, Milford Sound Tours, South Island, Rotorua, Nelson, Queenstown
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48 Delight in the sights of the South Island on the TranzAlpine train Day 1. Arrive Auckland, Freedom of Choice. Arrive in the 'City of Sails' where you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. After you have settled in you have the chance to explore the city with a range of sightseeing inclusions to choose from. 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 marine life at Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium; or set off on a Wilderness Adventure into the Waitakere Rainforest, or the Devonport Explorer. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner as you get to know your Tour Director and your fellow travellers. Stay: Amora Hotel Auckland. FD Day 2. Auckland, Glenbrook Vintage Steam Train, Hauraki Blue Overnight Cruise. This morning travel to Glenbrook. On arrival, board the Glenbrook Vintage Steam Train. Lovingly restored, you'll enjoy a journey through the beautiful rural Franklin countryside aboard this historic steam train. Travel to Victoria Avenue and Waiuku, before enjoying a stop at the Pukeoware Depot to explore the workshop, view other historic regional locomotives undergoing restoration, and indulge in a delightful morning tea. Later, re-board the train and travel back towards Glenbrook. This afternoon, head towards Viaduct Harbour to board the Ipipiri for your spectacular Hauraki Blue Overnight Cruise that will showcase the best of the city. Once you are on board you will glide past Auckland's stunning and iconic highlights. These include the Harbour Bridge, Bean Rock Lighthouse and Devonport, as you glide out across the Waitemata Harbour towards the Hauraki Gulf. Here, you'll see the beautiful Rangitoto Island, formed around 600 years ago by a volcanic eruption; neighbouring Motutapu, one of the earliest places inhabited by the Maori people; Motuihe; Browns Island; and Waiheke Island. Perhaps take to the waters in one of the ship's kayaks or discover the underwater world whilst snorkelling. This evening, dine on fresh local produce. Stay: Hauraki Blue Overnight Cruise. BD Day 3. Auckland, Rail Cruise Experience, Rotorua, Hangi Feast. Enjoy breakfast on board before cruising back to port. Board your coach and head towards the Mamaku Ranges near Rotorua for a unique self-drive Rail Cruising experience. In a hybrid vehicle, you will have a front row seat to the view of the spectacular ranges with an audio guide to educate you on the region as well. In Rotorua this evening, you'll get an insight into the culture of New Zealand's Maori people, as you enjoy a traditional and exciting Hangi Feast and performance. Two Night Stay: Holiday Inn Rotorua, overlooking Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. B, FD Day 4. Rotorua, Freedom of Choice. Following breakfast this morning, enjoy your Freedom of Choice Sightseeing Inclusion which allows you to explore Rotorua in your own way. Perhaps experience Rotorua's icons at the famed and much-loved Agrodome Farm Show, followed by a visit to Rainbow Springs Nature Park to see a working Kiwi nursery that also houses other birds and reptiles, and then visit the fascinating Te Puia Thermal Reserve. Alternatively, take a 'Hobbiton Movie Set' tour for an enthralling insight into the making of the Lord of the Rings trilogy; take a drive through forest and farmland to visit New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool and colourful hot springs; or discover the local art, history and culture at Rotorua Museum. B Day 5. Rotorua, The Northern Explorer Train, Tongariro National Park. This morning, depart for Otorohanga Railway Station and board the The Northern Explorer Train for a captivating journey through the spectacular Tongariro National Park, taking you past a variety of different landscapes. Experience the extraordinary beauty of the North Island as the rolling green landscapes chug gently by. Continue through Tongariro National Park, famed for its breathtaking snow-capped volcanic mountains. It's also the oldest national park in New Zealand, and the fourth national park established in the world. Enjoy a night at the iconic Chateau Tongariro Hotel. Built in the 1920s, the Chateau is located in a beautiful setting right in the midst of the national park's scenery. Relax and be transported back to the glamour of yesteryear. Stay: Chateau Tongariro Hotel. BD Day 6. Tongariro National Park, Fell Locomotive Museum, Wellington, Freedom of Choice. Farewell beautiful Tongariro National Park following breakfast Great New Zealand Rail & Cruise Experience 16 Day Luxury Escorted Journey Auckland | Rotorua | Wellington | Franz Josef | Queenstown | Milford Sound | Dunedin | Mt Cook www.aptouring.com.au