Epic New Zealand

DAY 01
On arrival in Auckland Airport you will be greeted by your driver and taken to your hotel.
Cruise into a stunning luxury hotel in the City of Sails. Gaze upon Maori sculpture rising from the lobbys dramatic reflecting pool. Savour the art of flavours in each moment. Surround yourself in the oceanic chic of Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour."Please join us for a Magnifique voyage to the waterside splendour of Auckland. Experience the French art de vivre blended with natural beauty of New Zealand and the citys cosmopolitan allure
Overnight stay @ Auckland.

DAY 02
Great Sights North, Explorer Bus Hop on / Hop off Pass, Adult 24hour Pass Sky Tower, Total Sky Tower Experience, Adult
A truly captivating experience awaits visitors to Auckland's Sky Tower. At 328 metres, it is the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand and offers breathtaking views for up to 80 kilometres in every direction. Travel up in the glass-fronted lifts to one of the three spectacular viewing platforms. Total Tower Experience Pass Includes:186 metre Main Observation Level, 182 metre Sky Lounge café and bar, 220 metre Sky Deck.
Fullers Auckland, Twilight Wine and Dine Tour.
Wine tasting at Stonyridge Vineyard - Nestled in a beautiful valley of olive trees and vines, Stonyridge is one of the most romantic and exotic venues in the greater Auckland area. Known for their Cabernet blends, Stonyridge also has a wonderful cafe menu, featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Batch Winery tour and wine tasting - The highest-altitude vineyard on Waiheke Island, Batch offers incredible 360-degree views - from Coromandel to the Sky Tower. On the winery tour, you'll learn about Batch's gravity-fed wine production, plus sample their best batches.
Dinner at Thomas' Bach - Watch the sunset from Batch Winery's restaurant, before tucking into a seasonal two-course dinner. Thomas' Bach serves vintage Kiwi dishes with a modern flair and locally-sourced ingredients.
Ferry & coach transfers - The tour includes return ferry fare from downtown Auckland, as well as all coach transfers on Waiheke Island. Your local tour driver will meet the ferry at Matiatia Wharf, sharing the island's unique story on the scenic drive. After dinner, take in Auckland's glittering skyline as you sail back to the city.
Overnight stay @ Auckland.

DAY 03
Car Rental Notes, Pick up Auckland (pick up place – TBA)
Rental Car Terms, Conditions & inclusions
● Daily rate includes: Unlimited kilometers, vehicle insurance with nil excess, airport concession fee and GPS Vehicle type listed is not guaranteed, all confirmed hires are on basis of or similar make and model.
● Cars are confirmed per category and not by make or model, all confirmations subject to possible substitute Rates are quoted on a 24 hour period.
● Please note it is imperative that all clients have a credit card when hiring a vehicle in New Zealand. Minimum hire for vehicle hire is 21 years of age
● An international driver's license is not required for vehicle hire in New Zealand as long as the license is printed in English. A valid license must be presented by all drivers to the hire company upon vehicle pick up.

IMPORTANT:
Please note it is imperative that all clients have a credit card when hiring a vehicle in New Zealand.
'For information on safe and enjoyable driving in New Zealand, please visit http://www.drivesafe.org.nz/

Fullers Bay of Islands, Hole in the Rock Afternoon
See some of the Bay of Islands' most scenic highlights on a four-hour cruise around its sheltered waters. Set off from Paihia or Russell and enjoy the scenic views of secluded islands with their white sand beaches and native forest as you cruise past them.

During your cruise you'll travel out along the Cape Brett Peninsula to the historic lighthouse at its end, and see the famous Hole in the Rock at Motukokako Island. If conditions permit, your skipper will take the boat right through the hole! You'll also spend some time on the island of the day – we'll pick the best of the bunch for you to explore, depending on the conditions. Choose to relax on the beach or take a stroll and drink in the views of this breath-taking region.
Overnight stay @ Paihia

DAY 04
Today drive to Rotorua.
Tamaki Maori Village, Evening Concert and Hangi, Adult
You will journey with us to the outskirts of Rotorua, to a Maori village nestled in an ancient forest. There, after a formal and sacred ceremony, you'll be welcomed through the fortifications and into the village. As fires blaze, the entire village comes to life. See and learn about Maori art forms and Maori traditions. See Maori weaponry displays, watch women weaving and making Maori crafts, listen to villagers tell stories of their ancestors and history, experience traditional Maori tattoo, ancient horticultural practices and so much more. Traditional songs and dances are also performed for you – experience the unique Poi dance, breath-taking harmonies and the famed, powerful Maori Haka. The Tamaki Rotorua Maori Village experience culminates in a sumptuous 3-course feast. Tamaki Maori Village Rotorua offers visitors an authentic Maori Hangi meal, steamed underground in the traditional way.
Overnight stay @ Rotorua.

DAY 05
Hobbiton Movie Set Tours, Set Tour ex Shires Rest or Matamata
Experience the real Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the bucolic setting for The Shire that featured in the Peter Jackson directed films, The Lord of the Rings. Your tour starts with a drive through the picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will escort you through the ten acre site recounting fascinating details of how the Hobbiton set was created. The Hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn, Mill and other structures created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films can be viewed and you will see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle-earth. Upon completion of your tour of the set you will return to The Shires Rest.
The Hells Gate Geothermal Park is Rotorua's most active geothermal area featuring a walkway lined with unique geothermal wonders and interactive opportunities. Experience the geothermal features with a self-guided map to show you around or join a guided tour of the reserve to learn more about the history, features and uniqueness of the geothermal area.
This also includes Private Mud Bath, Waiora Spa and a Towel is supplied.
Overnight stay @ Rotorua.

DAY 06
Agrodome, Farm Show
It's an action-packed hour of farming entertainment and education that's unlike anything you've seen before! Our energetic presenter will take you deep into the world of New Zealand farming where you will be introduced to 19 breeds of sheep; you'll witness a live sheep shearing demonstration and even have the chance to bid on a sheep in our lively auction. But it's not just about the sheep. Be amazed by the remarkable Huntaway dogs and our Strong-eye Heading dog as they demonstrate their ability to respond to commands and keep those sheep in line!
Duration: One hour / three shows daily at 9.30am, 11.00am and 2.30pm
Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa, Thermal Pool Entry
Significant natural thermal springs; mud and silica waters found in geothermal areas have been used for hundreds of years by Maori for healing and wellness. Specific sites were often located in beautiful landscapes, at the junction of rivers and streams, on the shores of pristine lakes and below magnificent silica terraces.
At Wairakei Terraces, pools of varying temperatures between have been strategically positioned below the silica terraces and waterfall, taking full advantage of the geothermal water flow that is drawn to the earth's surface from 1.5 kilometres underground.
Overnight stay @ Napier

DAY 07
Post breakfast today drive down to Wellington
Overnight stay @ Wellington

DAY 08
Car Rental Notes, Return Rental car to Wellington Ferry Terminal, Interislander, Wellington to Picton.
Cross Cook Strait on the Interislander between New Zealands two beautiful islands. Interislander is far more than the New Zealand ferry service that bridges the gap between the North and South Islands.
The 92 km, three hour journey between Wellington and Picton is one of New Zealand's most iconic tourist experiences, and acknowledged as one of the most spectacular cruises in the world.
You will never forget Cook Strait. It is so spectacular, it was named after the guy who discovered us!
Car Rental Notes, Pick Up vehicle at Picton Ferry Terminal.
Overnight stay @ Blenheim.

DAY 09
Post breakfast at the hotel drive down to Hammer Springs.
Overnight stay @ Hammer Springs.

DAY 10
Today you'll drive towards Franz Josef.
Overnight stay @ Franz Josef.

DAY 11
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef.
The perfect opportunity to get up close to the glaciers and touch snow. You'll be captivated as you lift off and fly up and over the Franz Josef Glacier or Fox Glacier and experience the solitude of a landing in this natural alpine wonderland.
Overnight stay @ Franz Josef.

DAY 12
Today will drive towards the most anticipated /highlighted destination on the tour – Queenstown.
Overnight stay @ Queenstown.

DAY 13
Skyline Gondola Queenstown, Gondola & 2 Luge Rides
Marvel at the stunning views as you ride the Skyline Queenstown Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! Sit back and relax as the best views in the region unfold before your eyes and the Gondola carries you 450 metres above Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu to the top of Bob's Peak. En route you will enjoy a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breath taking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter Peak, and Cecil Peak and over Queenstown. On arrival our purpose built viewing platforms and outdoor terraces provide great photo opportunities. Jump on your specialised Luge cart, select your track, and then take control as you zoom down the Luge. Then catch the Luge chairlift back to the start zone and do it all over again - once is never enough! The Scenic Track is a leisurely ride with gentle gradient, easy bends, tunnels and dips. The Advanced Track has a steeper gradient and is a more adventurous ride with the thrill of banked corners, tunnels, dippers and cuttings.
Onsen Hot Pools, Lantern Package - Night Only
The Onsen Hot Pools experience is all about unwinding and soaking-up Queenstown's spectacular scenery. Immerse yourself in the views, the pure waters, and the fresh mountain air, as your mind and body surrenders to the deep penetrating warmth and gentle massage of our private pools. The most amazing thing you'll do together during your stay in Queenstown! The most memorable experience in Queenstown! Surround yourself with a sky of stars and 14 Japanese lanterns.
Overnight stay @ Queenstown.

DAY 14
Ex Queenstown, Coach / Scenic Cruise / Fly - Milford Sound, Including Indian Boxed Lunch
On boarding our luxury coach in Queenstown, travel along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. After a short break, the coach continues along the spectacular alpine route of the Milford Road through impressive, awe-inspiring scenery. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way. Considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world, experience this journey in comfort on our exclusive 'state of the art' coaches. Our friendly coach drivers provide detailed commentaries throughout the trip. On reaching Milford Sound, join a spectacular one hour 40 minute cruise to the mouth of the fiord on a spacious, modern vessel with excellent viewing opportunities. Keep a look out for seals basking on the rocks, dolphins and penguins. Enjoy scenic highlights such as Mitre Peak and Pembroke Glacier. Informative commentary explains the history and highlights points of interest during the cruise. A range of lunch options and complimentary tea and coffee is available. Following the cruise, guests are transferred to their aircraft for the return flight to Queenstown (weather permitting). During the 35 minute scenic flight, take in expansive views of golden tussocked high country and the upper reaches of Lake Wakatipu and fly over the snow-capped Southern Alps. A hidden landscape unfolds below revealing glacial lakes, waterfalls, densely forested valleys and cloud-piercing summits. Taxi transfers are provided to accommodation on arrival at Queenstown airport.
Overnight stay @ Queenstown.

DAY 15
Christchurch Attraction Combos, Christchurch Pass Combo (Garden Tour, Tram, Punting & Gondola
The Gondola offers a unique Christchurch sightseeing experience that you'll never forget. Soar suspended above the valleys as the birds fly beneath your cable car. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Christchurch cityscape, over the Canterbury Plains out to the mighty Southern Alps and the dramatic hills of Banks Peninsula.
A visit to Christchurch is not complete until you visit the historic Botanic Gardens. Climb aboard one of our all-weather electric vehicles and tour in comfort. The Christchurch Botanic Gardens Tour is an affordable activity for nature enthusiasts of all ages, allowing you to view some of the best examples of native and exotic flora in New Zealand.
An iconic Christchurch activity not to be missed. Admire the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens or the changing face of the city centre as you are expertly guided gently along the Avon River on our authentic Edwardian punting tours.
Enjoy a journey in style through the changing face of Christchurch's city centre on board our beautifully restored heritage Trams, one of Christchurch's leading attractions, Our friendly and knowledgeable drivers will inform you about the city, its landmarks and local sights. Your day-long ticket allows you to get on and off the Tram as often as you please!
Overnight stay @ Christchurch

DAY 16
Car Rental Notes, return rental car @ Christchurch Airport & catch the flight for the onward journey!