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Worldwide Escorted Bus Tours & River Cruises
New Zealand In Depth
Haere Mai—welcome to New Zealand! New Zealand has amazingly beautiful scenery—including vast mountain chains, spectacular gorges, dramatic river valleys, sweeping coastlines, tranquil lakes, steaming volcanoes, and magnificent fiords—and with a population of only four million, it is one of the world’s least crowded countries. On this tour through New Zealand, you’ll get a chance to see its breathtaking scenery and most famous cities.Trip highlights include the TranzAlpine scenic train journey, rated one of the world’s top six train journeys, and a cruise through Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park, where you’ll see some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. At Mount Cook National Park, enjoy the beautiful glacier-fed lakes and alpine scenery. Cruise from the North Island to the South Island and enjoy extraordinary beauty. In fact, this journey is renowned as one of the most beautiful crossings in the world.In addition to seeing the magnificent scenery, you’ll also spend time and enjoy sightseeing in New Zealand’s cities, including Queenstown, Rotorua, Wellington, Dunedin, and Christchurch. So be sure to grab your camera, as you’ll see some amazing sights that you’ll want to capture and share back home.At Globus, we design our journeys around the stories that they will tell. What story will you discover next?
Highlights:
Itinerary:
| Day #1 |
Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand. Welcome to New Zealand! This afternoon, choose one of the following activities. Perhaps take a trip to the top of the Sky Tower, visit the Auckland Museum, enjoy a half-day Auckland city sightseeing tour, explore Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World, visit Auckland’s Maritime Museum, or relax with a Bliss Royal Reflexology treatment. |
| Day #2 |
Auckland–Waitomo–Rotorua. This morning, leave the “City of Sails” and travel south through the rich dairyland of the Waikato Province to the WAITOMO GLOWWORM CAVES. Here, experience a guided tour of the underground limestone caverns, including the magnificent Cathedral Cave. Join a silent boat ride and glide through a mystical grotto, carved by an underground river over thousands of years and lit by thousands of tiny glowworms. Emerge into daylight and continue to Rotorua. Tonight, enjoy a traditional HANGI DINNER followed by an authentic MAORI CONCERT. (B,D) |
| Day #3 |
Rotorua. Rotorua is New Zealand’s oldest and best-known resort. Today you have the opportunity to select your activity. Choose to visit Rotorua’s icon attractions: Te Puia Thermal Reserve, Maori Arts & Crafts Institute, and the Agrodome Sheep Show. Perhaps relax at the Polynesian Spa with a spa treatment and leisurely soak in a natural thermal mineral pool, explore Rainbow Springs and Kiwi Encounter, enjoy a half-day ecothermal tour, or explore the Rotorua Museum. This evening, choose to join our country homestay option and spend a night with a local family. (B,D) Note: Space is limited on the country homestay option and must be requested at the time of booking. |
| Day #4 |
Rotorua–Taupo–Tongariro National Park–Wellington. Today, follow the Thermal Explorer Highway to the heart of the North Island. See the spectacular Huka Falls, mouth of the mighty Waikato River, and tranquil Lake Taupo, the water-filled crater of an ancient volcano. Then, travel south and cross the vast volcanic plateau of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park. The three mountains at the heart of the park—Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu—have cultural and religious significance for the Maori people. Continue to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city. (B,D) |
| Day #5 |
Wellington. For itineraries departing April 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011:This morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour that includes the Parliament buildings, Old St. Paul’s Cathedral, and a visit to TE PAPA, the National Museum of New Zealand. Following a city tour, choose from our selection of freedom of choice activities. Dinner tonight has been left free for you to choose from one of the many restaurants in this fabulous city. (B)For itineraries departing January 1, 2011 to March 31, 2011:Wellington–Picton–Blenheim. This morning, enjoy a brief city sightseeing tour that includes the Parliament Buildings, a visit to TE PAPA, the National Museum of New Zealand, and a journey to the top of Mount Victoria. Enjoy a stunning panoramic view of this busy cosmopolitan city and its sparkling harbor. This afternoon, CRUISE across Cook Strait to the South Island, renowned as one of the most beautiful crossings in the world. Sail from scenic Wellington Harbour across Cook Strait and through the breathtaking natural beauty of Marlborough Sounds to Picton. Upon arrival, travel to Blenheim, where tonight you will enjoy a WINERY TOUR & TASTING followed by dinner at the renowned Montana Brancott Winery Estate. (B,D) |
| Day #6 |
Wellington–Kaikoura–Christchurch. For itineraries departing April 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011:This morning, CRUISE across Cook Strait to the South Island, renowned as one of the most beautiful crossings in the world. Upon arrival, continue through the Marlborough region and the fishing town of Kaikoura before arriving in Christchurch. (B,D)For itineraries departing January 1, 2011 to March 31, 2011:Blenheim–Kaikoura–Christchurch. Today is a spectacular scenic journey between mountain and sea. Travel through Marlborough, a region with an international reputation for white wines. Arrive in the thriving seaside settlement of Kaikoura, known for its unique whale-, seal-, and dolphin-watching experiences. Journey between the Pacific Ocean and rugged Kaikoura Ranges, through North Canterbury to Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island and renowned as the “Garden City.” Upon arrival, enjoy a brief city sightseeing tour, then the afternoon is at your leisure to explore the English flavor of this pretty city. (B,D) |
| Day #7 |
Christchurch–TranzAlpine Train–Franz Josef. This morning, board the TRANZALPINE TRAIN for one of the most spectacular rail journeys in the world. Enjoy stunning scenery as you journey through spectacular gorges, river valleys, and across the country’s greatest mountain range, the magnificent Southern Alps. Continue along the dramatic west coast by motorcoach. View the magnificent Franz Josef Glacier. Nowhere in the world’s temperate zones are glaciers as accessible as here. There may be the opportunity to enjoy an optional scenic flight over this incredible region, weather permitting. (B,D) |
| Day #8 |
Franz Josef–Queenstown. For itineraries departing April 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011:Enjoy a day of incredible scenery as you travel along the west coast through a world of mountains and glaciers, limestone landscapes, tranquil lakes, raging rivers, and rare bird and plant life. Follow the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea to the action-packed alpine resort of Queenstown. Tonight, choose from one of four restaurants for dinner. (B,D)For itineraries departing January 1, 2011 to March 31, 2011:Franz Josef–Haast–Queenstown. Enjoy a day of incredible scenery as you travel along the west coast through a world of mountains and glaciers, limestone landscapes, tranquil lakes, raging rivers, and rare bird and plant life. At Haast, experience a unique RIVER SAFARI, capturing breathtaking views of the massive glacier-formed Haast River Valley, flanked by towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and dense temperate rainforest. Follow the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea to the action-packed alpine resort of Queenstown. Tonight, choose from one of four restaurants for dinner. (B,D) |
| Day #9 |
Queenstown. Queenstown is an exhilarating, year-round alpine resort, perfect for adventurers and leisure-seekers alike. Today, choose from a selection of activities. A Queenstown “Double-Decker Explorer” tour, a tour of some of the award-winning local wineries, an exhilarating jetboat ride on the Shotover River, or a relaxing garden tour might be for you. Perhaps the “Safari of the Scenes” tour, an adventure into Skippers Canyon by 4-wheel drive, might appeal, or a leisurely walk around Lake Wakatipu on a “Lakeshore Forest and Bird Walk.” (B) |
| Day #10 |
Queenstown–Milford Sound–Te Anau. More beautiful scenery today as you travel into FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK through the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has the elite status of belonging to UNESCO’s World Heritage Parks. CRUISE on the fiord with sheer rock walls rising thousands of feet from the water’s great depths. This afternoon, travel to the tranquil settlement of Te Anau. (B,D) |
| Day #11 |
Te Anau–Dunedin. Journey across the South Island to Dunedin. The city was settled by the Scottish in 1848 and is now renowned as the “Edinburgh of the South.” This afternoon, choose your activity. Perhaps take a tour of Speights Brewery and Heritage Centre, where they brew the popular Speights Ale, or visit the Otago Peninsula to see the Royal Albatross Colony. Consider exploring Penguin Place to spot the “Hoiho,” rare yellow-eyed penguins, or maybe explore Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle with its beautiful gardens. (B,D) |
| Day #12 |
Dunedin–Oamaru–Mount Cook. Journey north to Moeraki Beach with its unusual boulders. Stop at Oamaru, a historic town renowned for its distinct cream limestone buildings. Continue inland past beautiful glacier-fed lakes of incredible color to New Zealand’s highland and MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK, named after the highest peak in New Zealand. Upon arrival, choose one of the following activities. Take a guided walk through the national park, visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Center, or stargaze with an expert astronomer. (B,D) |
| Day #13 |
Mount Cook–Lake Tekapo–Christchurch. This morning, stop at beautiful Lake Tekapo and visit the picturesque stone Church of the Good Shepherd. Leaving the High Country, travel through the vast Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. (B,D) |
| Day #14 |
Christchurch. This morning, choose from a range of exciting activities. Enjoy a sightseeing tour including the Antarctic Centre, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, Christchurch Tram, and Christchurch Gondola; take a leisurely trip on the Avon River or a bike ride around Christchurch City; or maybe wander through some of Christchurch’s local gardens. Later, transfer to the airport for departure. Homebound flights should not be booked before 3 pm. (B) |
Hotels:
Auckland Skycity Hotel (SF), Rotorua Heritage Hotel (F), Wellington James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor (SF), Christchurch Copthorne Central Hotel (F), Franz Josef Franz Josef Glacier Hotel (MF), Queenstown Novotel Gardens Hotel (F), Te Anau Village Inn (MF), Dunedin Scenic Circle Dunedin City Hotel (F), Mount Cook The Hermitage (MF)
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Pricing Options:
| Depart US | Land-Only |
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| 11/18/2010 | $3,775.00 | | 11/21/2010 | $3,775.00 | | 11/25/2010 | $3,775.00 | | 11/28/2010 | $3,775.00 | | 12/05/2010 | $3,775.00 | | 12/12/2010 | $3,775.00 | | 12/19/2010 | $3,775.00 | | 12/26/2010 | $3,775.00 | | 01/06/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 01/09/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 01/13/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 01/16/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 01/20/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 01/23/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 01/27/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 01/30/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 02/03/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 02/06/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 02/08/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 02/10/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 02/13/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 02/15/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 02/17/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 02/20/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 02/22/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 02/24/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 02/27/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 03/01/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 03/06/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 03/10/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 03/13/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 03/17/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 03/20/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 03/27/2011 | $4,695.00 | | 04/03/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 04/10/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 04/17/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 04/24/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 05/01/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 05/08/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 05/22/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 06/19/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 07/10/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 08/14/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 08/21/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 08/28/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 09/04/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 09/11/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 09/18/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 09/25/2011 | $4,395.00 | | 10/09/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 10/13/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 10/16/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 10/23/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 10/27/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 10/30/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 11/06/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 11/10/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 11/13/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 11/17/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 11/20/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 11/24/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 11/27/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 12/04/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 12/11/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 12/18/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 12/22/2011 | $4,895.00 | | 01/05/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 01/08/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 01/12/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 01/15/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 01/19/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 01/22/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 01/26/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 01/29/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 02/05/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 02/07/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 02/09/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 02/12/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 02/14/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 02/16/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 02/19/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 02/21/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 02/23/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 02/26/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 02/28/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 03/01/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 03/04/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 03/08/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 03/11/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 03/18/2012 | $4,895.00 | | 03/25/2012 | $4,895.00 |
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©2005 Flamingo Travel Group
All Rights Reserved
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