Essence Of New Zealand Tour

Visit New Zealand

{ "summary": [ "Discover New Zealand in depth beginning in Christchurch as you explore the South Island. View Aoraki Mount Cook, visit Dunedin and Queenstown, cruise Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, see idyllic surrounds at Franz Josef/Waiau, and ride the TranzAlpine train. In the North Island, visit Wellington, Napier, Rotorua, Auckland and the Bay of Islands.\n\nSelect Small Group departure dates available with no more than 24 guests.\n\n\n" ], "itinerary": [ { "icon": "location", "day": "1", "title": "Arrive Christchurch", "image": "", "body": "Once you’ve arrived in Christchurch, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing before enjoying a Signature Experience, followed by a welcome dinner. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "2", "title": "Christchurch, Lake Tekapo/Takap?, Aoraki/Mount Cook", "image": "", "body": "Today, you’ll traverse the Canterbury plains to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo/Takap?. Later, venture into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience and then embark on a sightseeing activity of your choice. \n\nSignature Experience – Aoraki/Mount Cook\n\nJourney into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a bewildering landscape of towering mountain peaks, alpine herb fields and epic glaciers. See New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook and stay at the iconic Hermitage Hotel. Dine at the hotel’s Alpine Restaurant this evening, indulging in a delicious seasonal menu that incorporates the finest local ingredients. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre\n\nVisit the state-of-the-art Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and discover the history of the iconic surrounding region. The museum is dedicated to the achievements of the famous mountaineer and explorer Sir Edmund Hillary and his affiliation with Aoraki/Mount Cook. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Stargazing\n\nExperience the magic of the night sky in one of the world’s best stargazing locations. Nestled in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, learn all about the stars of the southern sky with an expert astronomer. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Glacier Explorer Cruise\n\nStep aboard a MAC boat for an up-close encounter with stunning icebergs on the terminal lake of the Tasman Glacier - New Zealand’s largest glacier. Surrounded by the dramatic alpine landscape of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, you’ll glide across the milky-blue waters while learning about the glacier’s history, geology, and ongoing changes." }, { "icon": "location", "day": "3", "title": "Aoraki/Mount Cook, Dunedin", "image": "", "body": "Set out along the shores of Lake Pukaki to Oamaru. Continue to Koekohe Beach to view the unusual spherical-shaped Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki. Arrive in Dunedin in the late afternoon and enjoy time at leisure before dinner. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "4", "title": "Dunedin, Te Anau", "image": "", "body": "This morning, discover the history of Larnach Castle and its beautiful gardens on a guided tour. Situated on the stunning Otago Peninsula, it is New Zealand’s only castle and dates back to 1871. Afterwards, enjoy breathtaking scenery as you travel to the lakeside settlement of Te Anau. Tonight, a sensational Signature Experience awaits.\n\nSignature Experience – Taste of Fiordland Dinner\n\nDelight in a delectable Taste of Fiordland dinner this evening at the exceptional MacKinnon Restaurant & Explorer Bar. With a menu that has been carefully crafted to showcase the South Island’s regional cuisine, you’ll savour mouth-watering local fare made from the finest artisan produce." }, { "icon": "location", "day": "5", "title": "Te Anau", "image": "", "body": "Waking in Te Anau this morning, decide how to spend your day thanks to our range of Freedom of Choice activities on offer. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Te Anau Glowworm Caves\n\nFor a truly magical underground experience, journey into caves lit by thousands of glowworms. The tiny creatures guide the boat’s path through the dark interior. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise\n\nExplore the beauty of this vast fiord on a cruise and soak up the serenity of this untouched wilderness area. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Fiordland Jet Boat Ride\n\nTake a jet boat down the Waiau River and across Lake Manapouri to the ancient forests inside Fiordland National Park, where you'll have time to explore. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "6", "title": "Te Anau, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, Queenstown", "image": "", "body": "This morning, travel through the Eglinton and Hollyford Valleys as you wind down the Milford Road. Continue your journey into Fiordland National Park and arrive at Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, where you will cruise along the full length of the fiord during a spectacular Signature Experience. Afterwards, Queenstown awaits. \n\nSignature Experience – Milford Sound/Piopiotahi Cruise\n\nA cruise through Milford Sound/Piopiotahi draws you into a magical world of snow-dusted mountains, breathtaking scenery and engaging wildlife. Edge close to tumbling waterfalls and colonies of seals and penguins, all beneath the ramparts of mighty peaks that rise sheer from the water as they stretch to the vast sky above. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "7", "title": "Queenstown", "image": "", "body": "Today, discover Queenstown your own way with an included Freedom of Choice sightseeing activity. Later, choose where to enjoy dinner with our Freedom of Choice dining options and savour the tantalising tastes of New Zealand’s celebrated South Island.\n\nFreedom of Choice Sightseeing – 'The Lord of the Rings’ 4WD Safari\n\nDiscover why this beautiful landscape was chosen to portray Middle-earth in 'The Lord of the Rings' on this sensational 4WD safari. Visit several breathtaking locations where the iconic motion picture trilogy was filmed. \n\nFreedom of Choice Sightseeing – Wine Tour\n\nEmbark on a personalised sightseeing tour of New Zealand’s southernmost wine region, as you indulge in tastings from various wineries. \n\nFreedom of Choice Sightseeing – Skippers Canyon\n\nEnjoy an exciting 4WD adventure following the Shotover River Valley. Admire rocky cliffs, sheer drops and breathtaking river gorges along the way. \n\nFreedom of Choice Sightseeing – Million Dollar Cruise\n\nGlide across the mystical waters of Lake Wakatipu, keeping your eyes peeled for local bird life, as well as enormous trout that swim in the lake’s waters. \n\nFreedom of Choice Sightseeing – Dart River Wilderness Jet\n\nA wilderness jet boat journey on the glacier-fed Dart River takes you deep into Mount Aspiring National Park, which is part of the larger World Heritage Site of Te Wahipounamu. Here, your guide will share fascinating insights into the area’s rich history.\n\nFreedom of Choice Sightseeing – Best of Queenstown\n\nGaze in wonder at the beauty of New Zealand’s adventure capital on this spectacular tour. Take in panoramic views of Queenstown, visit the charming township of Arrowtown and explore Gibbston, home to the world’s first commercial bungy jump location. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery and to top it all off, relax during a scenic boat cruise on Lake Wakatipu.\n\nFreedom of Choice – Walter Peak\n\nCruise aboard a vintage steamer to Walter Peak High Country Farm to enjoy a lavish BBQ dinner featuring succulent meats expertly prepared on the rotisserie and grill, vegetables, a selection of salads and bread. And be sure to leave room for dessert. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Stratosfare Restaurant\n\nTake a magical gondola ride up to the Stratosfare Restaurant on Bob's Peak overlooking Queenstown. Feast on an extensive range of New Zealand and international cuisines while enjoying uninterrupted views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Fergburger\n\nThis cult burger house achieved worldwide fame in 2015 when its burgers were crowned the world's best in a travel article on the website of news giant CNN. The best burgers in New Zealand, no doubt. The world? You be the judge. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Finz Restaurant\n\nFinz Seafood & Grill offers casual, relaxed waterfront dining right in the heart of Queenstown. Finz is a bustling bistro, where you can enjoy fresh seafood daily and other dishes in a fabulous location. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Your Hotel Restaurant\n\nEnjoy a contemporary fusion of local and international cuisine at your hotel. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "8", "title": "Queenstown", "image": "", "body": "Immerse yourself in beautiful Queenstown with a full day at leisure. You may like to enjoy a relaxing stroll along the tranquil shores of Lake Wakatipu, or perhaps take part in the thrill of a lifetime in this adventurous city. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "9", "title": "Queenstown, Franz Josef/Waiau", "image": "", "body": "Skirt the shores of Lake W?naka and Lake H?wea before crossing Haast Pass on your journey to Franz Josef/Waiau where a Signature Experience awaits.\n\nSignature Experience – Franz Josef/Waiau \n\nDrive through Westland Tai Poutini National Park and see the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier/K? Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Tonight, you will stay at the luxurious Te Waonui Forest Retreat, located on the edge of the Franz Josef/Waiau village. Relax and unwind amid the lush rainforest and breathtaking scenery, before enjoying a four-course degustation fine dining experience. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "10", "title": "Franz Josef/Waiau, TranzAlpine Train, Christchurch", "image": "", "body": "Today, travel aboard the TranzAlpine train on your Signature Experience.\n\nSignature Experience – TranzAlpine Train\n\nExperience the romance of rail travel aboard the TranzAlpine train. Admire ever-changing landscapes and spectacular gorges as you journey through the famous Southern Alps and alongside the Waimakariri River on one of the world's most scenic rail routes." }, { "icon": "location", "day": "11", "title": "Christchurch, Kaik?ura, Blenheim", "image": "", "body": "This morning, follow the East Coast to Kaik?ura, before traversing the Marlborough region to Blenheim. Tonight, enjoy a Signature Experience at your hotel.\n\nSignature Experience – Highlights of Marlborough Dinner\n\nIndulge in the finest flavours as you savour a Highlights of Marlborough dinner at your hotel’s restaurant. Local chefs will present each dish before you, showcasing a superb menu that has been thoughtfully paired with exquisite wines from the region. The fusion of quality local produce and multi-ethnic influences has helped shape New Zealand’s food and wine culture as among the best in the world." }, { "icon": "location", "day": "12", "title": "Blenheim", "image": "", "body": "Enjoy your selected Freedom of Choice sightseeing activity today. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre\n\nTake a self-guided tour of this world-class historic aircraft centre, which includes Sir Peter Jackson’s World War I collection. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Seafood Odyssea Cruise\n\nSoak up the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds on a relaxing afternoon cruise while sampling fresh local seafood, including salmon and Greenshell mussels.\n\nFreedom of Choice – Half-Day Wine Tour\n\nThis wonderful tour takes you right into the heart of Marlborough wine country. With visits to several of the region’s premier wineries, you’ll end this tour feeling like a true wine connoisseur. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "13", "title": "Blenheim, Picton, Wellington", "image": "", "body": "Today starts with a Signature Experience. This afternoon, take part in a fascinating sightseeing tour of Wellington.\n\nSignature Experience – Interislander Ferry \n\nTake the iconic Interislander ferry from Picton on the South Island to Wellington on the North Island. Enjoy stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds before cruising across Cook Strait and into the serene waters of Wellington Harbour. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "14", "title": "Wellington, Napier", "image": "", "body": "Today you'll drive through the Rimutaka Ranges en route to the coastal city of Napier, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience. \n\nSignature Experience – Napier Art Deco Tour\n\nDiscover the city of Napier and enjoy a guided walking tour of this beautiful art deco city, rebuilt in the era’s style after the devastating Hawkes Bay earthquake in 1931. Explore the city’s streets and learn about the iconic and unique features of art deco design, as well as the history behind each building. Marvel at the intricate detailing, vibrant colours and fascinating stories of this town frozen in time. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "15", "title": "Napier, Taup?, Rotorua", "image": "", "body": "Today, journey through Esk Valley and Te P?hue, stopping at the charming town of Taup?. Later, travel to Rotorua and enjoy a Signature Experience.\n\nSignature Experience – Te P? T?\n\nEnjoy a feast of M?ori delicacies and performance of haka, song and storytelling at Te P? T? (M?ori Village). Over a magical evening, you will be welcomed with a haka p?whiri (cultural welcome) and then be treated to further captivating performances while enjoying seasonal canapés, chef selected aperitifs and a seasonal three-course dinner." }, { "icon": "location", "day": "16", "title": "Rotorua", "image": "", "body": "This morning, discover the beauty of Rotorua as you enjoy your chosen sightseeing activity. The evening is yours at leisure to explore further. \n\nFreedom of Choice Sightseeing – Rotorua Icons\n\nEmbark on a Rotorua adventure. Experience the lively Agrodome Farm Show and visit The National Kiwi Hatchery before heading to the incredible natural geothermal wonder that is renowned for its healing properties, the mineral-rich Te Puia Thermal Reserve.\n\nFreedom of Choice Sightseeing – Hobbiton Movie Set Tour\n\nA must for any fan of ‘The Lord of the Rings’, this tour explores locations where some of the famous movie scenes were filmed. You’ll feel as though you’re a part of the massive blockbuster trilogy.\n\nFreedom of Choice Sightseeing – Eco-Thermal Tour\n\nDrive through a unique mix of forest and farmland to visit New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool and a series of colourful hot springs at the calming Waiotapu.\n\nFreedom of Choice – Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa\n\nImmerse yourself in the rejuvenating geothermal waters of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa on a Restorative Journey. The 7-step multisensory process combines M?ori culture and traditional healing practices, with the therapeutic elements of geothermal heat, water, mud, and steam." }, { "icon": "location", "day": "17", "title": "Rotorua, Auckland", "image": "", "body": "This morning, travel through the dairy farming region of Waikato to Auckland. Upon arrival, enjoy your selected sightseeing activity. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise\n\nSail under the Auckland Harbour Bridge, spot volcanic peaks and admire the iconic city skyline from the water aboard a 50-foot monohull sailboat. \n\nFreedom of Choice – All Blacks Experience\n\nImmerse yourself in a guided encounter that connects you to the history and culture of one of the world's greatest sports teams. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the people who have made the All Blacks such an important part of New Zealand’s story. \n\nFreedom of Choice – W?t? Workshop Unleashed\n\nJourney behind the cinema curtain with the Academy Award-winning team at W?t? Workshop and see how blockbuster films such as ‘The Hobbit’ are created. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Te Wao Nui – The Living Realm at Auckland Zoo\n\nAt Auckland Zoo, explore six stunning habitats showcasing the native flora and fauna of New Zealand. See the iconic kiwi, cheeky kea and more than 50 other native species. \n\nFreedom of Choice – Bush and Beach Wilderness Adventure\n\nEscape the bustle of the city on a half-day tour to Auckland’s wild, black sand beaches and lush rainforest. Join an experienced guide and learn about the forest’s unique plants and wildlife. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "18", "title": "Auckland, Bay of Islands", "image": "", "body": "Cross Auckland’s Harbour Bridge and travel along the Hibiscus Coast. Stop at Parry Kauri Park to view the large kauri trees and soak up the rich pioneering history of the Northland region. Continue to the stunning Bay of Islands. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "19", "title": "Bay of Islands", "image": "", "body": "Today starts with a Signature Experience, where you will be immersed in the spectacular Bay of Islands region on a cruise. Afterwards, the afternoon is free for you to explore further before a farewell dinner.\n\nSignature Experience – Bay of Islands Cruise\n\nEnjoy a catamaran cruise to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Meander through the inner islands, admiring the sandy beaches and rocky outcrops. " }, { "icon": "location", "day": "20", "title": "Bay of Islands, Depart Auckland", "image": "", "body": "After breakfast, travel to Auckland where your New Zealand adventure concludes. We say goodbye before we transfer you to the airport for your flight." } ] }

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