14 Days: The Best of New Zealand Vacation [ST-3489]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Auckland (2 Nights), Rotorua (2), Wellington (1), Christchurch (2), Dunedin (2), Queenstown (3)
  • International Flights (not included - can be included on request - see detailed pricing below) - Los Angeles to Auckland (Return)
  • US Domestic Flights - not included (as per your own arrangements)
  • New Zealand Domestic Flights - Rotorua to Wellington, Queenstown to Auckland
  • Day Tours - Auckland: Deluxe Coach to Rotorua; Wellington: Scenic Ferry to Picton; Picton: Scenic Train to Christchurch; Queenstown: Gondola Ride
  • Shuttle Transfers - Auckland Airport to Accommodation, Rotorua Accommodation to Airport, Wellington Airport to Accommodation, Wellington Accommodation to Ferry Terminal
  • Rental Car - 7 Day Rental: Pick-up in Christchurch, Drop-off in Queenstown
  • Rental Car (Base rate only) does not include taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees.
  • All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (US$15.00 per person)
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
  • Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Itinerary Details
(Day 1) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Auckland (can be included on request)

Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Auckland.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!

Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).

(Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer, Auckland Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand.

Please note: For airport transfers – 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc – $5.00 each.

(Days 2 to 4) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Auckland

Travel to your accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Auckland is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world– renowned as that ‘City Of Sails.’ Dramatic landscapes and seascapes provide a diverse playground in which a compelling range of attractions are available. Visitors come to enjoy an array of exciting entertainment, leisure, culture and dining possibilities in New Zealand’s largest city.

(Day 3) - Free Day to Explore Auckland

Visit one of Auckland’s many attractions.

Fly a kite or throw a Frisbee in the beautifully landscaped Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park. Critique a giant selection of both traditional and contemporary art at Auckland Art Gallery. Take a walking, swim or hike through any of Auckland’s 25 Regional Parks. Have a laugh at The Classic Comedy and Bar in Queen Street, New Zealand’s home of live comedy. Take the bus over to Eden Park, New Zealand’s largest stadium. In the evening you can join the dancing on K’Road and party on till the wee hours at one of the many nightclubs. Or maybe you would rather visit the trendy suburb of Ponsonby and enjoy delicious cuisine, superb lattes or cocktails if more to your taste. And if it is cafes, bars and restaurants you’re after, the Viaduct Harbour has a great selection.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand – Julian Apse

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Bay of Islands Tour - Full Day

Marvel at spectacular coastal scenery including the Hole in the Rock, Cathedral Cave and the inner islands while aboard a luxury catamaran. Also see the historic Waitangi Treaty House and a ‘waka’ (Maori war canoe).

Travel north over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and enjoy spectacular rural & coastal scenery enroute to the Bay of Islands via Hibiscus Coast and Whangarei. Bay of Islands is one of the most picturesque and popular vacation sites in New Zealand and was the site of the earliest contact between the indigenous population and European settlers. Take a trip into the past and visit such historical places as the Waitangi Treaty House, see a traditional Maori Meeting House and a huge ‘waka’ (war canoe), Captain Cook Memorial Museum, Flagstaff Hill and the oldest building in the country (Kemp House) along with the oldest Church. In the early afternoon at Cape Brett, board a luxury catamaran for your cruising adventure through game fishing waters as you cruise past the Cape Brett lighthouse to the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’. The excitement grows as you make a passage through the Hole and then continue on to the majestic Grand Cathedral Cave. On your return journey relax and enjoy subtropical paradise views with your favourite drink as you meander through the inner islands back to Cape Brett which are world renowned deep sea fishing grounds where porpoise (dolphins) and schools of fish are frequently seen. With the Bay of Islands’ combination of great fishing, diving, sailing and other water sports with some of New Zealand’s most significant historic sites you will be sure to have fun!

Includes: Pickups from accommodations, admission to Waitangi Treaty House, a Cape Brett cruise and boxed lunch.

Photo Credit: Destination Northland

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Auckland Harbour Cruise

Visit a true thing of beauty and cruise the sparkling waters of Waitemata Harbour!



Head out on this one and a half hour tour to see the Devonport Naval Base, travel past the township and North Head, then cruise towards the iconic Rangitoto Island as you pass the historic Bean Rock lighthouse. You’ll pass under the Harbour Bridge twice and then off to Westhaven Marina to catch a glance at the viaduct harbour bustling with super yachts!



Daily at 10:45am & 1:45pm. Tours do not operate on Christmas day.

(Day 4) - Deluxe Coach from Auckland to Rotorua

Experience New Zealand’s rich cultural heritage and the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, plus a trip through the famous glowworm caves at Waitomo, on this full day sightseeing tour by deluxe luxury coach.

Depart Auckland: Travel the main Southern Highway through small rural townships steeped in early pioneer history. Your host serves morning tea during this sector.

Waikato: Travel through New Zealand’s largest dairy and sheep farming province. See the small farming settlements on the outskirts of Hamilton City, as you travel towards King Country, birthplace of the Maori Monarchy.

Waitomo Glow Worm Caves: Join a guided tour through this world-famous cave formation, climaxed by drifting silently in a boat through a glow worm cavern lit up with thousands of tiny glow worm lights.

Light Lunch: Served on-board as we make our way to Rotorua through magnificent rural farmland with its vast numbers of grazing animals.

Rotorua: New Zealand’s highest city, 305 meters (1000 feet) above sea level, located inside the rim of a volcanic crater. An area of great geothermal activity where you will visit the following attractions:

Agrodome Farm Tour: An introduction to New Zealand farming, with a 45-minute tour of an authentic working farm in all-weather, all-terrain vehicles. Watch a sheep being shorn and hand-feed the animals.

Lake Rotorua: Drive through the foreshore park past the hundreds of ducks and swans. Then travel through the beautiful historic Government Gardens.

Te Puia Institute (Maori Arts, Crafts & Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve): One of Rotorua’s most famous attractions. See woodcarving, weaving displays, Maori village and the thermal valley with the famous Pohutu Geyser, fumaroles, colourful silica deposits and boiling mud pools.

This tour ends in Rotorua.

(Days 4 to 6) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Rotorua

Travel to your accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua your accommodation is only a short walk to the city centre, convention centre, cafes and restaurants. Here in the heartland of New Zealand’s Maori culture you’ll experience an enveloping warmth, proud spirit, deep sense of history and a quick humour. Picturesque cobbled and lantern lined streetways and striking Tudor architecture celebrates New Zealand’s significant colonial history. Travel the region by mountain bike or participate in local bush walks.

Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room

(Day 5) - Free Day to Explore Rotorua

Enjoy some free time in Rotorua to explore this historic city!

Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland filled with a plethora of activities and attractions to check out. The region’s unique location is filled with hot pools, geysers, mud pools and geothermal activity.

Visit Waiotapu, where there are many sights to explore. Experience the Champagne Pool and waterfall filled with rich vibrant colours of the mineral salts, bubbling mud pools, craters, and Lady Knox Geyser when you visit. Arrive in the morning to see the Lady Knox Geyser at 10:15 am. For a full day of relaxation, visit the hot mineral pools and treat yourself to a relaxing Polynesian spa treatment that uses the local products (like a Rotorua mud wrap or manuka honey facial). Go Zorbing! Roll down a hill in an inflatable globe in this truly unique experience. There are different tracks to roll down with up to three people in the globe. You can choose to roll down with water in the globe for a fun time splashing around. For the adventure seekers, try Skydiving, the adrenaline rush of the jump will have you accelerating at 200 kilometres/hour. All the great views of Rotorua are best seen from 15,000 feet above.

Photo Credit: Tourism Rotorua

Optional Evening Event (Not Included): Te Po, Indigenous Evening Experience

Te Po is an authentic, one-of-a-kind evening event. It is a feast of storytelling, entertainment and Maori cuisine like no other you’ll ever experience.

The Te Po  Indigenous Experience begins with a mouth-watering buffet at the world famous Pataka Kai Restaurant, Bar and Cafe. With locally sourced cuisine and an authentic Maori twist in each dish, it is guaranteed to be a favorite with your group.

Following this, you will be led to view an exhilarating cultural performance which takes place in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It will include a Pohiri (Traditional Maori Welcome), Waiata (Song), Moteatea (traditional chant), Poi and Haka.

Afterwards, enter the geothermal valley on a waka (people moving vehicle) and discover one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands – featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud, and beautiful native bush. For generations Te Puia has welcomed manuhiri (visitors) from all over the world to explore the magic hidden within Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley. During this experience, you will be viewing the valley afterhours and resting with a hot chocolate upon naturally heated rock seating beneath the powerful Pohutu Geyser.

Operates:
Daily 5:30pm-8:30pm

Includes:
– Return transfers from your Rotorua CBD accommodation
– Buffet dinner
– Maori cultural performance
– Hot chocolate
– Guided tour of the geothermal valley

Need to know:
Please advise of dietary requirements.

(Day 6) - Shuttle Transfer, Rotorua Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, to Napier.

Please note: For airport transfers – 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc – $5.00 each.

(Day 6) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Rotorua to Wellington

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Rotorua to Wellington (North Island).

(Day 6) - Shuttle Transfer, Wellington Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Wellington, New Zealand.

Please note: For airport transfers – 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc – $5.00 each.

(Days 6 to 7) - 1 Night Accommodation in Wellington

Travel to your accommodation in Wellington, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is located conveniently in the heart of Wellington, New Zealand. It is a short walk from Westpac Stadium, Te Papa Museum and the waterfront. Your vacation hotel has a direct elevator to Lambton Quay via a shopping arcade. Travel to New Zealand’s top wine regions, Wairarapa and Marlborough, which are only a short drive away. Or participate in adventure activities such as mountain biking, sailing, bushwalking and much more.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

(Day 7) - Shuttle Transfer, Wellington Accommodation to Ferry Terminal

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Wellington to the Ferry Terminal.

Please note: For airport transfers – 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc – $5.00 each.

(Day 7) - Scenic Ferry, Wellington to Picton

The 92 km journey across Cook Strait between Wellington (North Island) and Picton (South Island) takes only 3 hours and has been described as `one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world`.

Make your way from Wellington to Picton aboard one of 3 amazing ferries and take in the spectacular views along the way. See the South Island’s Kaikoura ranges and have the opportunity to spot dolphins and sea birds.

Operates
Daily
Departs multiple times beginning at 2:00am.

Includes
– Tranport from the North Island to the South Island
– Beautiful views
– Complimentary internet, newspapers, magazines, beer, wine, tea, coffee, & snacks

Need to Know
Food court, bar, Movie Theatre, and shops are at your own expense.

(Day 7) - Day Tour, Train ride from Picton to Christchurch

The Coastal Pacific train journey travels between the delightful port of Picton and Christchurch.

This 5.5 hour scenic feast is one of the world’s most scenic train journeys. The Coastal Pacific travels through 22 tunnels and crosses 175 bridges, one of them being New Zealand’s only road-rail bridge.

This journey is a scenic feast of New Zealand, with the Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side of your train and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline on the other. Travel through some of New Zealand’s finest horticultural and farmland areas, and see amazing wildlife such as dolphins, seals and penguins from the comfort of your train carriage.

Operates
February to end of April – Daily
May to late September – Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
Late September to Mid December – Thursday through Sunday
There are seasonal block out dates, please check with your Destination Specialist
Connects with the Interislander 9:00am from Wellington
Connects with the 2:15pm Interislander from Picton

Includes
– Train from Picton to Christchurch
– Spectacular views

Need to Know
If a seat is required for an infant, a separate seat at the child rate must be purchased. Cafe is at own expense.

Photo Credit: KiwiRail Limited

(Days 7 to 14) - 7 Days Car Rental

Discover New Zealand as you travel by rental car for seven days.

Take the opportunity to explore parts of New Zealand at your own pace by car. Please bring a valid American driver’s license with you and be aware that in New Zealand people drive on the left hand side of the road.

*Upgrade available to include GPS navigation system (additional cost).

Base rate only paid by About Australia. Insurance, Premium Location Surcharge, Fuel and Fees to driver’s credit card.

(Days 7 to 9) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Christchurch

Travel to your accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 4 Star vacation accommodation in Christchurch, located on New Zealand’s South Island, offers a stylish boutique hotel, just metres from Cathedral Square, major business houses, convention facilities and prime attractions. The city, also known as the “Garden City” offers many opportunities to either rest from your travel or explore the city. Consider traveling to Arthur’s Pass National Park, which has an incredible diversity of flora and landscape. Experience a breathtaking journey aboard the TranzAlpine Train winding its way through New Zealand’s magnificent Waimakariri Gorge.

(Day 8) - Free Day to Explore Christchurch

Spend a day to relax or explore diverse Christchurch.

Christchurch is a beautiful lifestyle city, set on the expansive Canterbury Plains between the wide sandy beaches of the Pacific Ocean, the spectacular snow-capped Southern Alps and the volcanic hills of Banks Peninsula. The city is interwoven by two rivers linking parks, gardens and avenues.

Browse the galleries and weekend markets. Savour local cuisine and award-winning wines and beers at the myriad of bars, cafes, restaurants and wineries.

Photo Credit: Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Tranz Alpine Safari Experience - Full Day

See the spectacular mountain vistas of Arthur’s Pass National Park and immerse yourself in New Zealand’s high country scenery on this journey through the South Island. You’ll discover breathtaking mountain landscapes and alpine forests on personal, up close encounters most people never get to witness.

Your day begins with a hotel pick up to the train station for boarding on the famous TranzAlpine train, rated one of the top six train journeys in the world. This scenic rail experience takes you westward across the rich agricultural belt of the Canterbury Plains, river canyons, tunnels and viaducts to the grand mountains of the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass.

At Arthur’s Pass village you will meet your guide, a friendly and professional tour leader who will give you profound insight into each stop of the day. You will have the opportunity to:

– View the pristine Waimakariri River and its unique braided river system
– Explore the alpine forest, crystal rivers and mountain vistas on short walks through Arthur’s Pass National Park
– Enjoy lunch at a historic high country hotel
– Follow the old stage coach route and view the spectacular Otira Gorge, a testament to the road builders of the 1860’s and the route taken by the Maori in their quest for greenstone
– Visit Cave Stream, where underground limestone cliffs, gorges and craggy outcrops await to be discovered. This area was also used for the filming of C.S. Lewis’s – “The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe”
– Visit the incredible Castle Hill rocks, unique rock formations and sacred landmarks to the Maori

Your journey ends with a deluxe mini van trip back to Christchurch, traveling via sub-alpine Porter’s Pass and the Canterbury Plains.

(Day 9) - Self-Drive from Christchurch to Dunedin

Drive from Christchurch and head South on State Highway 1 to Dunedin, approximately 5 hours.

Situated 110 km/68 miles north of Dunedin, is Oamar. Wonder at the Sperical Moeraki Boulders. Visit the historic limstone precint and view the Omaru penguin colony coming ashore at dusk. Along the way stop in Ashburton, for the Ashford Craft Village, which specializes in wood crafts and spinning wheels. In Temuka you can explore the Temuka Pottery Shop for locally made pottery.

(Days 9 to 11) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Dunedin

Travel to your accommodation in Dunedin, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Welcome to Dunedin’s only garden hotel, located within two acres of beautifully kept garden, and just a six-minute drive from the city centre (or seven, in rush hour). Neighboring the Dunedin Botanic Garden, you will be a short stroll to Otago Museum and the University of Otago. Forsyth Barr Stadium is also within easy walking distance. The unique surroundings make for a truly relaxing place to stay, no matter how busy your visit might be.

(Day 10) - Free Day to Explore Dunedin

Rest, Relax or Explore Dunedin.

There is so much to do in Dunedin. Visit the city centre – which is shaped like an Octagon and see the 100 year old statue of poet Robbie Burns. Enjoy the architecture, especially the Old Railway Station a couple of blocks from the city centre. Dunedin Botanical Gardens – occupying over 123 acres in the north end of the city is an excellent place for a several-hour stroll.

Baldwin Street is located in Dunedin’s North East Valley suburb. According to the Guinness Book of Records it is the steepest street in the world. Take the ten minute walk to the top or drive up to enjoy the view looking down! There is a drinking fountain at the top. Don’t forget Larnach Castle, the only castle in New Zealand; it’s very pretty but technically only a manor house.

See the visitor’s centre in the Octagon for further information.

Photo Credit: Dunedin NZ

(Day 11) - Self-Drive from Dunedin to Queenstown

Today drive from Dunedin to Queenstown.

The journey between Dunedin and Queenstown is a series of natural and cultural attractions laid out one after the other – wildlife viewing, short and multi-day walks, mountain-biking, fishing, boating, caving and more.

(Days 11 to 14) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Queenstown

Travel to your accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 3 nights.

Your vacation accommodation is located near the shores of Lake Wakatipu, and only 3 minutes drive from the centre of town. The hotel features rooms most of which have spectacular views over the lake and the remarkable mountain range. Facilities include a range of hotel amenities that invite those who want to relax from their travel. These include an outdoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, gymnasium, restaurant, bar, conference rooms and a ski and boot drying room. A convenient shuttle service to the town centre is also available at own expense. Travel and explore the surroundings by visiting New Zealand’s Milford Sound, Central Otago Wineries. For the nature lover, maybe enjoy a nice stroll on walking trails that meander along the lakes shores. In the evening perhaps dine whilst enjoying a Maori Concert and see powerful performances of The Haka and other songs of New Zealand custom.

Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room

(Day 11) - Day Tour, Gondola Ride

One of the first sights to captivate visitors to Queenstown is the distinctive outline of the Skyline complex high above town.

Located an easy 5 minute walk from central Queenstown and exclusively accessed by scenic gondola, Skyline Gondola, Restaurant & Luge is a must-see attraction during your visit to Queenstown. The best views in the region are found here, spread out in a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkable mountain range and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peaks. It’s truly magnificent and awe-inspiring!

Of course there’s more to do than just admire the view! For an additional cost you can:

  • Enjoy a dinner or relax in the bar in the Skyline Stratosfare Restaurant. Casual dining is also available during the day in the Cafe.
  • Thrill seekers can hurtle down the winding downhill Skyline Luge. Purpose built Luge carts put you in complete control as you take on a half-mile of banked corners, tunnels and dippers. Once you’ve conquered the course, hop on the chairlift and do it all again, and again, and again! Gentle and leisurely or steep and adventurous, you’ll be hooked.
  • Explore the southern night sky of Queenstown with a guided tour of the galaxy and learn about the stars, nebulae and planets that make up our solar system and beyond.

Ask your Destination Specialist about available combo packages to make your day at Skyline more enjoyable.

Various walking tracks can also be accessed from Skyline, from an easy 30 minute walk to a full day hike.

Operates
Daily. Stratosfare Restaurant closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Gondola rides operate from 9:30am to 8:30pm Monday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday. Gondola rides operate from 9:30am to 6:30pm Tuesday & Wednesday. Saturday operation hours are 8:50am to 8:30pm.

Includes
– Gondola ride

Need to Know
Gondola ride is approximately 7-10 minutes one way.

Upgrades
– Add a thrilling luge ride to your Gondola experience.
– Add the Taste of New Zealand buffet at Stratosfare Restaurant
– Stargazing evening event

(Days 12 to 13) - Free Days to Explore Queenstown

Spend a day to relax or explore dynamic Queenstown.

This region is renowned for its incedible adventure activities and spectacular outdoor terrain. You could try skiing, snowboarding, bungy jumping, paragliding, jetboating, sky diving and more! Or, if you want something a little more relaxed, you can choose from numerous family activities, nature experiences, tours and beauty spas. One hundred and forty years after our establishment as a gold mining camp, central Queenstown has transformed into a sophisticated cosmopolitan town, tucked into a picturesque bay on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, beneath majestic mountains. There’s a permanent buzz in downtown Queenstown, where you’ll find a fantastic choice of restaurants, a lively bar scene and excellent shopping.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Dart River Safari - ½ Day

This jet boat adventure offers your senses a feast of spectacular natural beauty on a journey into the wilderness of the World Heritage-listed Mt. Aspiring National Park.

Your day begins with 1.5 hour journey on a jet boat through the Dart River system. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful snow-covered peaks, hidden valleys & waterfalls. Your day includes a guided walk (30 minutes) along the ‘Heritage Trail’ at Paradise. Your guide will provide you with informative & entertaining commentary about the ancient native beech forest. The forests of this region sit within a World Heritage Area, one of the only natural sites of its kind that is accessible to the public.

Your guide details the fascinating history of this area from the days of Gondwanaland, to quests by Maori for prized pounamu, to the present-day efforts of New Zealand’s department of conservation for the preservation of the area. On the ride home, you will stop to view the epic backdrop for many international movies, including ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy.

Dart River Wilderness Safari is a high-country adventure. To ensure that your experience is truly enjoyable, please: Dress warmly and wear comfortable walking shoes, regardless of season or weather. Bring sunglasses, a sunhat and sunscreen (insect repellent could also be useful in some weather conditions). Note that cameras are carried at customer’s risk.

Tour itself is approximately 3 hours.

Operates
Daily. Does not operate on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Departs Queentown 8:30am
Departs Glenorchy 9:30am

Includes
– Highly experienced professional driver and guide 
– Thrilling ride on a modern, well maintained twin engine jet boat
– Life jackets 
– Transport from central Queenstown location or Glenorchy central location

Need to Know
This experience is not suitable for pregnant women, those with specific medical conditions, including people who suffer from back or neck injuries. Children must be at least 3 years old to join tour. Warm layers of clothing are recommended, including waterproof jacket, sturdy footwear and sunglasses. A small bag can be carried with you for the entire duration of the tour, should you require any extra items.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Doubtful Sound - Full Day

Doubtful Sound is a beautiful fiord; three times longer than Milford Sound and a surface area ten times larger with twisting arms. With its rugged peaks, verdant rainforest and twisting, hidden inlets, Doubtful Sound will take your breath away.

The only way you can to get to Doubtful Sound is to cruise across the picturesque Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus trip over Wilmot Pass – New Zealand’s most expensive (and majestic) road.
Pause along the way to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest and view Doubtful Sound glistening below. This isolation makes this fiord a very special place, only those in the know get to see.
Once you arrive, you will board the Patea Explorer for a 3-hour cruise on Doubtful Sound – a spectacular pristine fiord. During the cruise, your knowledgeable and friendly skipper or nature guide will share with you their passion for the region. They’re always ready to answer questions, point out landmarks and provide all the information about the varied wildlife you may see, including dolphins, fur seals, and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.
Following the cruise, return to your Queenstown hotel by luxury coach.

Operates:
Daily
Departs 6:55am, Returns 7:30pm (approx.)

Includes:
– Transport by coach to/from Queenstown accommodation
– Lake cruise
– Fjord cruise
– Wildlife viewing
– Insightful commentary by nature guide

Need to Know:
Wear waterproof/warm clothing and non-slip shoes. Please bring sunglasses, sunscreen and camera. Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility. Because of the length of the tour, please bring a packed lunch. Food and drink available for purchase onboard.

Photo Credit: Tourism Media

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Bungy jumping from Kawarau Bridge

If you’ve heard of Bungy, you’ve heard of the The Kawarau Bridge Bungy (bungee) jump. Home to the world’s first and most famous of leaps, 43m above the Kawarau River is the world’s best-loved Bungy site.

Opened in 1988, the Kawarau Bridge Bungy is ‘The Original’, the World’s first commercial bungy site. Jumpers launch 43m off this Historic Bridge, which spans the Kawarau River 20 minutes outside Queenstown, New Zealand. Jumpers arrive at the Kawarau Bungy Centre, where they are briefed, weighed and sign waiver forms, before heading out onto the historic Kawarau Bridge. Jump deck crews harness each jumper and attach foot cuffs before 5… 4… 3… 2… 1… BUNGY!


You can choose from a number of options; topple over backwards, forwards, with another person, spin or somersault. Kawarau Bridge Bungy is also the only Bungy in Queenstown where you can choose to bob above the water, touch it, or be fully immersed.

Jumpers are then lowered into a raft and walk back up to the Kawarau Bungy Centre where they can check out photos and videos of their jump (purchasing of photo and video is at an additional cost) and browse through our selection of exclusive merchandise.

Spectators are more than welcome to stop by the Kawarau Bungy Centre. If Transport is needed there is a charge of $30.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Shot Over Canyon Swing Adventure

Shotover Canyon Swing is the world’s highest swing.With over 10 different jumpstyles we can expertly manage the scariness for everyone from knitting nanas to adrenaline junkies.



We have built a platform on the edge of a cliff 109m/360ft above the Shotover River. At the platform you are fitted into a seat and chest safety harness and connected to the jump ropes. This harnessing configuration keeps your arms and legs free throughout the journey and enabling you to safely depart the platform in any position imaginable. Gravity does the rest.



Upon departing from the platform you’ll have a pure freefall of 60m/200ft into the canyon before the ropes smoothly pendulum you to a giant swing arc of 200m/650ft at 150kph. The freefall/swing journey is so smooth you’ll barely notice when you’ve finished freefalling and begun your swing. After a number of swings across the canyon we’ll winch you swiftly back up to the platform.

(Day 14) - Domestic Flight, Queenstown to Auckland

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Queenstown to Auckland (North Island).

(Day 14) - International Flight, Auckland to Los Angeles (can be included on request)

Today depart Auckland and fly to the USA. Enjoy an in-flight dinner and movie with arrival in the USA. Note: you will be traveling back across the International Date Line. Gain that day back you lost on the way over, you actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Auckland.

Note: Flight may include a stop over in Australia.

  • a) All prices are USD$/person (including all Taxes). Subject to availability and seasonality. Other Conditions Apply (see Terms and Conditions).
  • b) Land Content Only represents the pricing for the full itinerary as detailed, except the International Flights from the USA (and return) are NOT included.
  • c) An Infant (Lapchild) must be less than 2 years old on the date of departure. Infant must travel with at least one adult. An infant with a seat pays the price of a Child.
  • d) A Child must be aged between 2-11 years on the date of departure. Child must travel with at least one adult.