12 Day Majestic New Zealand Independent Coach Tour have been pre-planned and for ease and peace of mind we have pre-booked all your accommodation and sightseeing needs to allow a truly memorable experience.
On arrival in Auckland, ‘The City of Sails’, seat in coach passengers will be met by our local representative and privately transferred to your hotel.
DAY 2 : AUCKLAND SIGHTSEEING
Morning tour including Harbour Bridge, Auckland Viaduct and Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park for panoramic views of Auckland city and Waitemata Harbour. (B)
DAY 3 : AUCKLAND - WAITOMO - ROTORUA
Travel south through the fertile Waikato region to arrive at Waitomo. Enjoy a guided tour of the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves including an underground boat ride viewing the millions of glow worms on the cavern roof. On completion continue over the forested Mamaku Ranges to reach the ‘Thermal City’ of Rotorua. (B)
DAY 4 : ROTORUA
Visit Te Puia Thermal Reserve to see boiling mudpools and roaring geysers. Following this, visit Rainbow Springs to see New Zealand’s trout, birds and wildlife before continuing to the Agrodome for a New Zealand farm show featuring sheep dog demonstrations, cow milking and an introduction to the stars of our sheep industry. The afternoon is at leisure. This evening enjoy an authentic Maori Hangi (feast) and Concert. (B,D)
DAY 5 : ROTORUA - CHRISTCHURCH
Depart on your domestic flight from Rotorua to Christchurch (airfare is NOT included). (B)
DAY 6 : CHRISTCHURCH - MT COOK - QUEENSTOWN
Travel across the fertile Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo and the ‘Church of the Good Shepherd’ before continuing on to New Zealand’s highest mountain – Mt Cook. Depart Mt Cook and follow the shores of Lake Pukaki south through the historic Central Otago region to the ‘Alpine Resort’ of Queenstown. (B)
DAY 7 : MILFORD SOUND
Follow the southern arm of Lake Wakatipu to Lumsden, and onward to Lake Te Anau. Enter the Eglinton Valley and travel through the breath taking man made Homer Tunnel to reach Milford Sound. Enjoy a cruise on this world famous fiord, dominated by Mitre Peak and the cascading Bowen Falls. Return to Queenstown. (B)
DAY 8 : QUEENSTOWN
A free day to explore the endless optional attractions available. Queenstown offers bungy jumping, jetboating, white water rafting, gondola rides and much more. Optional activities not included in the tour price. (B)
DAY 9 : QUEENSTOWN - GLACIER REGION
Depart Queenstown and travel via Lake Wanaka and through the historic Haast Pass, gateway to the World Heritage Westland National Park. Continue up the West Coast past spectacular mountain ranges, native forests and lakes to the glacier region of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. (B)
DAY 10 : GLACIER REGION - CHRISTCHURCH
Travel north to Greymouth today and board the TranzAlpine train (seat in coach passengers only). Ascend through lush beech forests past the alpine village of Arthur’s Pass before crossing the spectacular Southern Alps. Travel over Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. (B)
DAY 11 : CHRISTCHURCH SIGHTSEEING
Highlights of this mornings tour include Monavale Gardens, Arts Centre, Museum, Art Galley, the University, Botanical Gardens and the Avon River. (B)
DAY 12 : DEPARTURE DAY
Your arrangements conclude today with a departure transfer or the return of your rental car. We trust you enjoyed your New Zealand Vacation! (B)
Arrive to ,
Inclusions & Highlights
Our Package Touring offers the following:
[icon_check] Daily departures [icon_check] No minimum number of passengers [icon_check] Breakfasts Daily at all hotels [icon_check] All sightseeing entry fees included (as mentioned in each itinerary) [icon_check] A choice of accommodation options [icon_check] All tours can be added to [icon_check] All packages can be taken in reverse (except ‘Stunning New Zealand’)
ACCOMMODATION
Standard Accommodation Options Standard is equivalent to a good 3-star tourist hotel.These hotels represent excellent value for money and usually have a licensed restaurant and bar on the premises.
Superior Accommodation Options Superior describes hotels in the 3 1/2 to 4-star category. More often than not, these will be centrally located and offering a wide range of services and facilities.
First Class Accommodation Options First Class are central city or resort location hotels at the top end of the scale rating 4 to 4 1/2 stars. All hotels at this level have excellent facilities, bars and restaurants etc, full services, and many feature swimming pool, spa baths, and fully equipped gymnasium for the enjoyment of guests.
DATES & PRICES
Prices starts from NZD 2,939 per person, twin share, Daily Departures
The price is customized based on final hotel choices, travel dates, and other custom preferences. If you require modifications to the itinerary as well as travel arrangements, please also advise.
The Agrodome, located just 10 km north of Rotorua CBD, is one of the most popular farm experiences in New Zealand. The attraction features live sheep shearing, cow milking, lamb feeding, dog demonstrations, as well as a full New Zealand dog trial. With 19 breeds of champion rams, the multi award-winning Sheep Show is a must-see for tourists. There are three exciting shows a day at 9:30 am, 11:00 am, and 2:30 pm, each lasting an hour. This all-weather attraction is open 365 days a year from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and is just 15 minutes north of Rotorua CBD.
Location: 15 minutes north of Rotorua CBD Duration: 1 hour
See first hand why Auckland is regarded as one of the best cities in the world to live in, as you join this half day tour around the central city and picturesque suburbs.
Our journey begins with a short trip over the Harbour Bridge to the North Shore before returning to the central city to visit Queen St and the Auckland Viaduct.
We continue on through the Auckland Domain, the city\’s oldest park, situated on a 62,000 year old volcano to Parnell Village for our morning tea stop. The historic buildings of Parnell have been transformed in to a trendy shopping area featuring many boutiques, antique, craft and specialty shops.
Following this brief stop our tour will then take you along the scenic waterfront route of Tamaki Drive to the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park, in Mission Bay. A memorial to the first Labour Prime Minister of New Zealand and the founder of the welfare state. Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park has panoramic views over Whenua Rangatira, Auckland city and Waitemata Harbour. This park is a popular wedding and tourist venue, with formal gardens and perfect venue for flying a fabulous array of colourful and creative kites. The tour then returns to downtown.
a complimentary pick-up and drop offer service is provided from inner city hotels. Please check with your NZ-Tourism tour consultant for hotel pick-up details for the Auckland City Highlights.
On tour we will view some of the areas affected by the earthquakes, see how Christchurch is preserving some of its iconic heritage buildings and hear about the exciting vision to rebuild and restore the inner city.
Your experience includes a tour around central Christchurch on New Zealand’s only Open Top Double Decker and a 2 hour Tour on a closed top Double Decker visiting places of interest in greater Christchurch.
During the winter months (May-October) the Open Top bus may not be operating on Tour due to weather. The Central City Tour will continue to run on the closed roof Double Decker bus.
Open Top Bus highlights
Hagley Park and Antigua Boatsheds
Botanic Gardens and The River Avon
Canterbury Museum and Arts Centre
Christchurch Art Gallery
Provincial Chambers
Catholic Basilica
Bridge of Remembrance and Friendship Corner
Cashel St ReStart Shipping Container Mall
Christchurch Cathedral and new Cardboard Cathedral
Art Deco New Regent Street
AMI Stadium
And much, much more!
Closed Top Bus highlights
Picturesque Seaside Sumner – Visit the quaint seaside village of Sumner, here you will have time to explore the beach while taking in the beautiful views of the sea towards the Southern Alps.
Port Hills – After departing Sumner we head up onto the Port Hills for breathtaking views into Lyttelton Harbour, over Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains, all the way to the Southern Alps
Mona Vale Gardens – At Mona Vale you will enjoy a casual stroll through one of Christchurch’s most famous and spectacular gardens.
Pick up Location
Rolleston Ave, outside Canterbury Museum
Get up close & personal with Milford Sound on our leisurely Nature Cruise
Milford Sound Cruise from Te Anau: As you cruise the length of the fiord, learn about the history of the region and benefit from the knowledge of your specialist nature guide. Experience the spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces or watch out for dolphins, seals and in season, the rare Fiordland crested penguins.
Our Nature Cruises have a flexible, extended itinerary which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take in the highlights. Our experienced skippers will tailor the cruise route on the day depending on the weather and wildlife sightings to ensure you get to see the best that Milford Sound has to offer.
National Kiwi Hatchery, hosted at Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park: Rainbow Springs is truly an attraction like no other in the world. Set in 22 acres of beautiful native trees and streams we are home to a huge variety of New Zealand’s most precious inhabitants. The entire experience is built around New Zealand’s largest and most successful Kiwi conservation center.
Since 1995 we have released over 1,000 kiwis into the wild. Added to this intimate view of one of the world’s living treasures, you will also be able to experience the adrenalin rush of The Big Splash (additional charges apply), explore our many free flight aviaries, feed the birds their breakfast, come face to face with pre-history in the eyes of our many tuatara, talk to Jenny the hand-reared kea, feed the largest wild trout you will ever see, experience the wonder of our bird show (additional charges apply) featuring some of the funniest feathered performers you will ever see.
Not only that, because your ticket is valid for repeat entry for the day of the purchase you can come back at night to listen to the bird calls and to watch the kiwi come out to play. With no glass in our outdoor kiwi enclosure, and only a knee-highcenter fence separating you from these curious native birds, you can get closer to kiwi than you ever thought possible.
Te Po is Te Puia’s evening cultural experience. It is a feast of storytelling, entertainment and Maori Cuisine.
Experience an authentic Maori welcome – When you visit Te Puia at night, you enjoy an in-depth experience of the customs and traditions of Maori, with a traditional powhiri (Maori welcoming ceremony), a warrior’s challenge and a full kapa haka (Maori performing arts) concert.
Enjoy a First-Class Maori Feast
Feeding guests is regarded by Maori as an honour and a sign of a tribe’s mana (standing), so a sumptuous banquet is provided during the evening. This banquet combines contemporary cuisine with a traditional hangi (earth-cooked oven meal), where kai (food) is steam-cooked by hot rocks in the earth, giving it a delicious smokey flavour.
Enjoy Illuminated Thermal Valley
Following dessert, you will be transported by our ‘people movers’ to enjoy the spectacular lighting of the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. Guests can wander around the illuminated natural attractions, including our world famous Pohutu geyser, while enjoying more Maori-inspired delicacies and a hot drink.
Maori Tradition
In Maori tradition, Te Po (the night) was a very important time. It was when Ranginui (Sky Father) and Papatuanuku (Earth Mother) lay in an embrace. When separated, light permeated Te Po and Te Ao Marama (World of Life) began. Start time 6:15pm
Te Puia Thermal Reserve Rotorua – Hot springs, boiling sulfurous pools, silica terraces, and bubbling mud pools are among the natural wonders.
Enjoy our unique culture, and to experience firsthand the wonders of Mâori arts and crafts in Te Puia Thermal Reserve. Te Puia is home to the internationally renowned Pohutu geyser, the National carving and weaving schools, and the world-famous Whakarewarewa guides.
This geothermal valley is a special place, home to Te Arawa people for generations. The environment alone is of enormous geological significance, with thermal activity ranging from boiling mud to the world-famous 30-metre Pohutu geyser, erupting up to 20 times each day. The valley is home to many species of native plants and animals.
You can take a guided tour of the New Zealand native bush or you can guide yourself around Rotorua. Our guides will point out all the native species and describe the many uses Mâori find for the natural resources around them.
Our Kiwi Conservation Centre is a valuable part of a national breeding programme. Here in Te Puia Thermal Reserve you can see our national bird and symbol in a specially lit house, with expert guides and information at hand.
TranzAlpine Train – Christchurch to Greymouth Train
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island with the Tranzalpine Scenic Train Journey. Renowned as one of the world’s most spectacular train journeys, this awe-inspiring experience takes you from coast to coast, unveiling stunning scenery that simply cannot be witnessed from the road.
As you board the Tranzalpine train, get ready to immerse yourself in a visual feast of natural wonders. From towering snow-capped mountains and rugged gorges to pristine rivers and lush forests, every moment of this journey promises to leave you in awe. The panoramic windows of the train offer unobstructed views, allowing you to capture every detail and truly appreciate the grandeur of New Zealand’s South Island.
The TranzAlpine Scenic Rail Journey is not just a means of transportation; it is an expedition into nature’s masterpiece. As you traverse through picturesque landscapes, keep your camera ready to capture moments that will forever be etched in your memory. Marvel at the ever-changing scenery as you pass through charming towns, cross soaring viaducts and venture into tunnels carved through mountains.
Whether you are a nature enthusiast seeking solace in untouched beauty or a traveler yearning for an extraordinary experience, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train Journey has something for everyone. It offers a unique opportunity to witness New Zealand’s diverse landscapes up close and personal.
So why settle for ordinary when you can embark on an extraordinary adventure? Hop aboard the TranzAlpine Scenic Train Journey and let it transport you into a world where beauty knows no bounds. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
TranzAlpine Timetable
The TranzAlpine operates daily excluding Christmas Day.
One of New Zealand’s Most Breathtaking Natural Wonders
Over 30 million years ago, limestone was created at the bottom of the ocean, which gave birth to the legend of Waitomo. Today, these limestone formations stand as one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking natural wonders, and it is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the country.
Guided Tour Highlights
During your guided tour, you will be taken through over 250 meters of stunning underground scenery, starting with the impressive Cathedral. Your tour will begin at the upper entrance of the cave and continue along a low, narrow passage to the Tomo, a deep limestone shaft. You will also get to see other magnificent cave formations, including the Banquet Chamber, the Pipe Organ, and the Catacombs.
The highlight of your tour will be an unparalleled boat trip through the spectacular Glowworm Grotto. As your eyes adjust to the darkness, you will be dazzled by the walls and roof sparkling with the lights of glowworm larvae. You will glide silently through the starry wonderland of the glowworm grotto, with your way lit by a myriad of tiny glowworm lights glittering and reflecting off the water.
Your experienced tour guide will deliver a highly informative commentary about the formations and the history of the area. The cave is easily accessible to those with reasonable mobility, with good handrails and paths.
Tours are available every half hour from 9 am to 5 pm daily. We recommend wearing walking shoes/footwear and warm clothing. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are accessible to those with reasonable mobility, aided by good handrails and paths. The tour takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.
Tours depart every 1/2 hour from 9am to 5pm daily
Summer Hours: 9.00am – 5.30pm (End of October to Easter Monday)
Winter Hours: 9.00am – 5.00pm
We offer you the flexibility to either choose from our existing itineraries or create your own itinerary based on your preferences, requirements, and travel dates. To begin, just get in touch with us and receive your personalized itinerary within 48 hours.
Looking for a personalized New Zealand tour for a group of 10 or more people? Contact us for a competitive price quote. We specialize in creating unique itineraries that inspire groups.
