Holidays to New Zealand - Great New Zealand Experience Escorted Coach Tour Ref: N18

Days 1 and 2
UK - Auckland
Your New Zealand holiday starts with a departure from the UK o­n a scheduled Air New Zealand flight to Auckland via Hong Kong or Los Angeles.

Day 3
Auckland
On arrival at Auckland airport, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel. Enjoy the remainder of today at leisure to explore the "City of Sails".
Overnights(2): Auckland - Crowne Plaza Hotel

Day 4
Auckland, Freedom of Choice Touring
This morning is at leisure. During the afternoon choose an activity and we will include it. Choose from an Auckland City Sights tour, a visit Auckland's Museum or a Waitakere Rainforest Adventure or enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean to the Tasman Sea while venturing through lush rainforest. Adventure Options also available. Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 5
Auckland - Bay of Islands
This morning we cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge, travelling through the farming communities of Warkworth and Wellsford. Visit the Matakohe Pioneer Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of kauri gum. Continue to the majestic Waipoua Kauri Forest Reserve where we see the giant Kauri tree ‘Tane Mahuta’ (Lord of the Forest). Travel across country to the subtropical Bay of Islands. Join a guided visit to the Waitangi Treaty House, Maori Meeting House and War Canoe. Breakfast & Dinner Included
Overnights(2): Paihia, Bay of Islands - Copthorne Waitangi Resort

Day 6
Bay of Islands, Freedom of Choice Touring
Not o­nly is the Bay of Islands the birthplace of the nation and thus full of New Zealand history, it is also home to 144 islands and renowned as a favourite playground for lovers of anything aquatic; diving, sailing and big game fishing. Today you have the opportunity to choose the sightseeing activity that most interests you and we will include it, whether it be a day trip to the very top of New Zealand or sailing o­n a unique Tall Ship. Adventure Options also available. Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 7
Bay of Islands - Auckland
This morning our Bay of Islands cruise takes us to Cape Brett and the famous 'Hole in the Rock'. In these world-renowned deep sea-fishing grounds, dolphins and schools of fish are frequently seen. meander through the inner islands, viewing sandy beaches, rocky outcrops and visit a secluded bay with time for relaxation. Return this afternoon to Auckland. Breakfast & Dinner Included
Overnight(1): Auckland - Crowne Plaza Hotel

Day 8
Auckland - Waitomo - Rotorua
THis morning we journey to the crest of Mt. Eden to enjoy spectacular panorami views of the city and its beautiful harbour.Leaving the City of Sails, we travel south through the Waikato Province to Waitomo Caves. Here, experience a guided tour of the limestone caverns and glow-worm grotto. Journey to the geothermal region of Rotorua, centre of Maori culture. Tonight is a unique experience a Hangi (feast) and cultural performance of song and dance. Breakfast & Theme Dinner Included
Overnights(2): Rotorua - Millennium Rotorua

Day 9
Rotorua, Freedom of Choice Touring
Rotorua is New Zealand's oldest and best known resort, where generations of visitors have enjoyed its therapeutic waters, marvelled at its fascinating geothermal activity and experienced the regions' unique maori culture.Today we give you the opportunity to choose the activity and we will include it! You may choose a leisurely soak in a natural thermal mineral pool, visit the Rotorua Museum or be entertained and educated by a sheep show and shearing display. Adventure options also available. Breakfast & Dinner Included - Country Homestay option available tonight.

Day 10
Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington
Today we view Wairakei Steam Valley, a unique fascinating geothermal power project. See spectacular Kuka Falls and picturesque Lake Taupo. Travelling south, we cross the vast volcanic plateau of World heritage-listed Tongariro National Park to Wellington. Breakfast & Dinner included
Overnight(1): Wellington - Hotel Inter-Continental

Day 11
Wellington - Nelson
Today our Interislander cruise takes us across Cook Strait to the South Island. Sail through scenic Wellington Harbour, into the breathtaking beauty of the Marlborough Sounds. See magnificent scenery in tranquil Queen Charlotte Sound before arriving in the picturesque seaside port of Picton. This afternoon we journey through the pretty orchard and vineyard region of Marlborough to Nelson. Tonight choose from two fine restaurants. Breakfast & Dine Around Dinner Included
Overnight(1): Nelson - The Rutherford Hotel

Day 12
Nelson, Franz Josef
Follow the Heritage Highway through the impressive Buller Gorge to the to the wild and rugged West Coast. View the fascinating 'Pancake Rocks' formations and blow-holes at Punakaiki. Stop at Hokitika to see beautiful Pounamu (jade) being carved into jewellery an other artefacts. Continue along the dramatic West Coast and enter World Heritage-listed Westland National Park, where you can view the glaciers, magnificent rivers of ice. Tonight enjoy a West Coast Specialities Dinner. Breakfast & Dine Around Dinner included
Overnight(1): Franz Josef - Te Waonui Forest Retreat

Day 13
Franz Josef, Wanaka
View incredible scenery today as we leave this World Heritage-listed area, travelling through Haast Pass and over the incredible Southern Alps. This scenic road takes us along the shores of picturesque lakes Wanaka and Hawea, where crystal-clear blue waters reflects dramatic landscapes. Continue to Wanaka township, originally settled during the glodrush era of last century and surrounded by Mt Aspiring National Park. Enjoy an overnight stay in this inspiring place of peace and tranquillity. Breakfast & Dinner included
Overnight(1): Wanaka - Edgewater Resort

Day 14
Wanaka, Queenstown
Depart Wanaka this morning and journey to the delightful village of Arrowtown, an old goldrush settlement. Continue to the alpine resort of Queenstown, situated o­n the banks of Lake Wakatipu. The wide range of activities available in Queenstown makes it a popular holiday destination at any time of the year. Tonight experience our Dine Around Dinner, where you choose from a variety of fifteen restaurants and we will include it. Breakfast & Dine Around Dinner
Overnights(2): Queenstown - Sofitel Queenstown

Day 15
Queenstown, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today you may personalise your sightseeing fraom a range of activities. Enjoy rambling through beautiful local gardens or a relaxing local winery tour. Perhaps take an exciting jetboat ride or a fun Double Decker bus tour through the streets of Queenstown and the goldrush settlement of Arrowtown. Adventure Options are olso available. Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 16
Milford Sound - Te Anau
This morning travel through Fiordland National Park where lush rainforests meets snow-capped mountains. Drive along Milford Road, renowned as o­ne of the most spectacular alpine drives. o­n arrival into Milford, we cruise the full length of this beautiful fiord, travelling below famous mile-high Mitre Peak. This afternoon we return through Eglington Valley and the Homer Tunnel to the lakeside settlement of Te Anau. Breakfast & Dinner included
Overnight(1): Te Anau - DistinctionTe Anau Hotel and Villas

Day 17
Te Anau - Dunedin, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today we journey via beautiful Lake Manapouri to the southern-most coast of New Zealand. Continue to Dunedin, settled by the Scottish in 1848 and renowned as the 'Edinburgh of the South'. The afternoon you choose the activity and we will include it! Perhaps visit Larnach Castle or take the opportunity to tour the Otago Peninsula to view Royal Albatross or Yellow-eyed Penguin Colonies in their natual environment, visit Speight's Brewery and learn about the production of Speight's beer, the well-known beverage in New Zealand or enjoy a Taieri Gorge Railway excursion. Breakfast & Dinner included
Overnight(1): Dunedin - Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

Day 18
Dunedin - Mt Cook
Travel north along the coast to view the unique and fascinating Moeraki Beach boulders. Stop at Oamaru, a town renowned for its distinctive limestone architecture. Pass massive hydro-electric dams and glacier-fed lakes of incredible colour o­n your our journey to Mt Cook National Park. This World Heritage-listed area and home to Australasia’s highest mountain, Mt Cook at 12,343 feet. You may wish to take an optional scenic flight over this awe-inspiring alpine region (weather permitting, own expense). Breakfast & Dinner included
Overnight(1): Mt Cook - The Hermitage

Day 19
Mt Cook - Christchurch
This morning we visit the beautiful glacier-fed lake of Tekapo and view the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd, built from locally gathered stone an oak. Leaving the High Country ans its sheep stations, we travel the plains of Cantebury. o­ne the way to Christchurch, you may choose to take the scenic TransAlpine from Arthers Pass or Continue with the coach through the Rakaia Gorge to Christchurch. Tonight experience our Dine Around Dinner, where you choose from three superb restaurants at your hotel and we will include it! Breakfast & Dine Around Dinner
Overnight(1): Christchurch - Crowne Plaza Hotel

Day 20
Christchurch - Auckland - UK
A final opportunity to sample the delights of this attractive city before being transferred to the airport. Check in for your flight to the UK via Hong Kong or Los Angeles. Breakfast included

Day 21
Arrive UK

FREE QUOTATION SERVICE - FREEPHONE 0800-988-4612 - open at weekends
Why not extend your holiday with a stopover in Hong Kong, Fiji or Los Angeles? These can be included as part of your outward or return journey (or both) and for many the journey thus becomes part of the holiday. Please don't hesitate to contact us to discuss accommodation options, as well as transfers and sightseeing possibilities - we are very happy to tailor make your holiday to your own requirements.

Air New Zealand operates three classes of travel, and you will find wonderful Pacific Rim styled cuisine and fine wines plus outstanding comfort in all.

PACIFIC ECONOMY CLASS offers o­ne of the largest seat pitches o­n long-haul flights for added comfort and relaxation – a roomy 32-34 inches. Enjoy video and audio o­n-demand o­n a seat back 8.4" screen.

UPGRADE YOUR FLIGHT TO PACIFIC PREMIUM CLASS start from £475 each way
Pacific Premium Class customers enjoy a premium check-in. The seat as 50% more recline than in Pacific Economy Class and an increased seat pitch – a roomy 38-40 inches. Enjoy video and audio o­n-demand o­n a seat back 8.4" screen.

UPGRADE YOUR FLIGHT TO BUSINESS PREMIER CLASS start fom £1105 each way
Business Premier Class customers enjoy a dedicated check-in and lounge access at London Heathrow and if travelling within a 55 mile radius of the Heathrow Airport, Air New Zealand will organize a limousine to transfer you to and from your home.
Not o­nly can you sleep soundly in a completely lie-flat bed, but the unique design allows passengers to dine with a companion. Luxurious leather armchair that converts to a fully lie-flat 6’7.5” bed. Video and audio o­n-demand with a 10.4” high resolution screen and active noise cancellation headsets. Every seat has direct aisle access. Access to Air New Zealand International Lounges

BRITISH MIDLAND ECONOMY CLASS DOMESTIC ADD-ONS -One way fares from £80.
Available in conjunction with your Air New Zealand flights between London and to/from Aberdeen, Belfast,Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester. Details o­n request.


SINGLE TRAVELLERS
If you are travelling alone and are happy to share a room with another person of the same gender, there is no need to pay a single supplement. We guarantee to find you a person with whom to share, or we will give you a single room at no extra cost.