Combo Fly-Drive Nth & Sth Island [NZ3]



Auckland, New Zealand Rotorua, New Zealand 12 Days / 10 Nights

Auckland, Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Christchurch & Queenstown

Begin in Auckland. Enjoy the landscape, Polynesian culture, glistening harbours and modern city environment creates an unbelievable lifestyle ranked amongst the best in the world. Not only is Auckland close to the beaches but it is also close to over twelve different Islands. There are 48 volcanic cones and more than 50 islands in the Auckland region. It is the largest city in New Zealand claiming one third of the entire population of the country.

Next is the Bay of Islands, which is located 60 km north-west of Whangarei, it is close to the northern tip of the country. It is one of the most popular fishing, sailing and tourist destinations in the country, and has been renowned internationally for its big-game fishing since American author Zane Grey publicised it in the 1930s.

Then to Rotorua, an exciting city with a vast history, tradition and culture. It is surrounded by volcanoes, lakes, parks and is a great place to go hiking or to view native birds and animals. The surrounding areas are a geothermal wonderland, with geysers, boiling mud pools, and steaming craters. Rotorua is also a showcase of Maori cultural activities and a place of exceptional natural beauty.

Then travel to Christchurch located on the east coast of the South Island. Just like the rest of New Zealand - is a city of contrasts. It is a place where its residents continue to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle amidst a natural environment world-renowned for its beauty. A growing cosmopolitan ambience also adds a touch of excitement without overt flashiness.

Last will be Queenstown, which is known as the Adventure Capital of the World. A reputation earned through the actions of a number of locally residing thrill seekers who have developed several unbelievable, adrenalin stirring, sanity reducing adventures in a wildly exciting environment. Queenstown has, over the years, quietly expanded into all sorts of attractions, including new wineries, art galleries, arts trails and challenging golf courses.

Travel Package Features

[NZ3] Combo Fly-Drive Nth & Sth Island
  • Accommodation - Auckland (1 Night), Bay of Islands (2 Nights - Own Arrangements), Rotorua (2 Nights), Christchurch (2 Nights), Queenstown (3 Nights)
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland, Auckland to Los Angeles
  • New Zealand Domestic Flights - Auckland to Bay of Islands, Rotorua to Christchurch, Christchurch to Queenstown, Queenstown to Auckland
  • Day Tours - Auckland: Harbour Cruise; Christchurch: Alpine Safari; Queenstown: Gondola Ride, Doubtful Sound
  • Rental Car - Pick up in Bay of Islands and return in Rotorua (Self Drive Bay of Islands to Rotorua)
  • Shuttle Transfers - Airport to Auckland Accommodation (return), Airport to Christchurch Accommodation (return), Airport to Queenstown Accommodation (return)
  • All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
  • 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.

Travel Package Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - International Flight - Los Angeles to Auckland
From USA to New Zealand 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 Airport to Auckland Accommodation
Auckland, New Zealand Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.
Days 2 to 3 - 1 Night Accommodation in Auckland
Travel to your accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

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 2 - Day Tour - Harbour Cruise
Visit a true thing of beauty and cruise the sparkling waters of Waitemata Harbour!

<a href="//youtu.be/xXhkr6_MzNc" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Auckland-Harbour-Cruise-New-Zealand.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

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! This cruise also gives you a chance to "hop-on, hop-off" and discover nearby islands at your leisure.

Daily at 10.30am & 1.30pm. Tours do not operate on Christmas day.
Insider's Tip - Auckland Explorer Bus
Hop On Hop Off City Bus Take a unique, fun and informative tour of Auckland, New Zealand's largest city on the Hop on Hop Off Auckland City Explorer Bus!

Nestled between two harbours, this beautiful and vibrant city has a diverse mix of culture and landscapes. Something for everyone - attractions and activities, shopping and eateries, events and adventure - you can explore it all this 24 hour Hop on Hop off bus pass.

<b>Unique Vehicles with Fantastic Views:</b> Discover the true magic of city sightseeing onboard our unique, classic and new, double decker buses. With a mix of open and closed top buses, you will ride in comfort and style, enjoying spectacular views from the top deck.

<b>Entertaining ‘Live’ Commentary:</b> Our friendly local guides provide a ‘live’ fun and informative commentary throughout your journey. Multi-lingual commentaries are also available on the central tour.

<b>Hop-on Hop-off and Visit Auckland’s Best Attractions:</b> As you circumnavigate the city, visiting historic landmarks and all the ‘must see’ attractions, you can hop on and off at your leisure to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

<b>Devonport Ferry Trip</b> Visit this historic suburb and browse boutiques for unique gifts, indulge at a restaurant or cafe, go to the beach or climb North Head for harbour views. Tickets are valid for sailings between 9:00am-4:30pm Monday to Friday, and all weekend sailings.

<b>Includes</b>
-Red and Blue Tour Routes
-Devonport Ferry
Insider's Tip - Victoria Park Market
Victoria Park Market, Auckland, New Zealand Make your way to Auckland's shopping destination...Victoria Park Market.

Overlooking Victoria Park, the Market is Auckland's shopping destination for arts & crafts, fashion & accessories, novelties, New Zealand souvenirs and international food (cafes, a food court & 3 restaurants are all on the site). You can wander the stalls while learning the history of the shopping site and about the people of New Zealand. Live entertainment is often provided and you can visit the Celebrity Walk of Fame.

Victoria Park Market is within walking distance from the central city, the Sky Tower and the America's Cup Village. If you are seeing Auckland via the Explorer or Link Bus, just exit at Victoria Park. Victoria Park Market is open 7 days a week from 9am to 6pm.
Day 3 - Shuttle Transfer Auckland Accommodation to Airport
Auckland, New Zealand Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, to the Airport.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.
Day 3 cont - New Zealand Domestic Flight - Auckland to Bay of Islands
Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Auckland to Bay of Islands (North Island).

Days 3 to 7 - Rental Car - Pick up in the Bay of Islands and Drop off in Rotorua
Rental Car in New Zealand Discover New Zealand as you travel by rental car for five days.

Take the opportunity to explore parts of New Zealand in and around your vacation town. 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.
Days 3 to 7 - Self Drive from the Bay of Islands to Rotorua
Bay of Islands Enjoy your self-drive from the Bay of Islands to Rotorua.

Bay of Islands to Kaitaia. The alluring beaches of the Far North beckon as no trip is complete without a visit to Cape Reinga, New Zealand's northernmost point. The West Coast is the wild, untamed twin with vast stretches of unbroken sand swept by the surf of the Tasman Sea.

Kaitaia to Auckland. Depart in the morning for Dargaville. Stop at Waipoua Forest where well-maintained tracks give access to giant Kauri Trees up to 2,000 years old. At Dargaville you can visit the maritime museum, which tells the story of many shipwrecks from New Zealand's early history.

Auckland to Rotorua. Depart Auckland this morning for your drive to Rotorua. Welcome to a world of ancient Maori and proud warriors - a world that unfolds with a journey back in time through the Maori village of "Te Tawa Ngahere Pa".
Experience the pre-European lifestyle and customs of the ancient Maori ancestors as the village comes alive with tribal songs, dances and activities. Enjoy a night of truly authentic, traditional culture and entertainment.
Days 5 to 7 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Rotorua
Rotorua, New Zealand 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
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.



<a href="//youtu.be/4QmF2iaU2A4" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Te-Po-Indigenous-Evening-Experience.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

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.

<b>Operates:</b>
Daily 5:30pm-8:30pm

<b>Includes:</b>
- Return transfers from your Rotorua CBD accommodation
- Buffet dinner
- Maori cultural performance
- Hot chocolate
- Guided tour of the geothermal valley

<b>Need to know:</b>
Please advise of dietary requirements.
Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - White Isle Helicopter Flight
Land on and explore an active volcano!

Your helicopter flight takes you north over Hell's Gate Thermal Valley to the Pacific Ocean coastline and the active volcano of White Island. Land at the crater's rim and spend approximately one hour on a guided walk of this fascinating natural attraction. Experience the volcanic fury of the main crater, view sulphur deposits, and the remains of the old sulphur mine.
Allow 3 hours

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand
Insider's Tip - Find Adventure in Rotorua
 Adventure Tip, Rotorua, New Zealand Experience a memorable adventure in Rotorua!

If you consider yourself to be an adventure buff then consider a day filled with one of these exciting Rotorua attractions! Take a "Must see, must do!" 2 1/2 to 3 hour ride on a New Zealand Riverjet and experience the fantastic geothermal wonderland on a thrilling jet boat! If a need for speed is present then opt to luge down one of three racing tracks or experience the Sky Swing at the Skyline Skyrides Complex. Whether a beginner or an extreme adrenalin seeker, have yourself a once in a lifetime experience with white water rafting! With these activities you are sure to make your time in Rotorua a memorable one!
Insider's Tip - Discover Rotorua's Geothermal Wonders
Take a breath as you marvel at Mother Nature in Rotorua...

Find out how the world began, with a visit to Waimangu Volcanic Valley, where in geological terms was created just this morning! Flying Pan Lake, the world's largest hot water spring; Inferno Crater with its mysterious geyser action; and Cathedral Rocks with vent billowing clouds of steam and more will be a photographic wonderland. Set amidst a landscape of erupting geysers, hot thermal springs and bubbling mud pools visit the authentic, living thermal village since 1863 of Whakarewarewa! Then see the unique lifestyles of a natural Maori village, filled with bubbling mud pools and mineral springs and the awesome powers of the 'Pohutu' and 'Prince of Wales Feathers' geysers. With so many natural wonders, Rotorua will inspire abundant moments of awe!
Insider's Tip - Learn Rotorua's History
Learn about Rotorua's fascinating history and culture.

A town full of natural wonders and evidence; discover the interesting history of Rotorua. The Buried Village once known as Te Wairoa, destroyed by the eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886, today serves as a living museum where visitors can experience this unique piece of New Zealand history. The excavated site, the only one to be open for public viewing in New Zealand, offers a first hand insight into the devastation, chaos and mayhem that transpired on the night Mt Tarawera erupted. Also visit the place where great stories began at the Rotorua Museum of Art and History. With its rich history and culture, it is easy to discover the essence of Rotorua in its people, culture and volcanic landscape.
Day 7 - New Zealand Domestic Flight - Rotorua to Christchurch
From Rotorua to Christchurch, New Zealand Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Rotorua to Christchurch (South Island).

Day 7 - Shuttle Transfer Airport to Christchurch Accommodation
Christchurch, New Zealand Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.
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 - Day Tour - Alpine Safari
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 that takes you 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 - Shuttle Transfer Christchurch Accommodation to Airport
Christchurch, New Zealand Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand, to the Airport.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.
Day 9 - New Zealand Domestic Flight - Christchurch to Queenstown
Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Christchurch to Queenstown (South Island).

Day 9 - Shuttle Transfer Airport to Queennstown Accommodation
Queenstown, New Zealand Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.
Days 9 to 12 - 3 Nights Accommodation in Queenstown
Spend 3 nights in beautiful Queenstown surrounded by rugged mountains, majestic lakes, crystal clear air, and just so much to do.

From the sweeping entrance with its enormous stone fireplace, to the contemporary artworks on every floor, Your accommodation epitomises style and glamour in a wonderfully understated way. Nestled on a hillside overlooking Lake and Mountains, the alpine lodge-style design truly embraces its alpine setting and is superbly located in central Queenstown only minute's walk from the resort's renowned dining and shopping precinct.

Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room
Day 9 - Day Tour - Scenic Gondola Ride over Queenstown
One of the first sights to captivate visitors to Queenstown is the distinctive outline of the Skyline complex high above town.


<a href="//youtu.be/1iQPRGL4SfM" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Skyline-Gondola-Queenstown.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

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:
<ul><li>Enjoy a dinner or relax in the bar in the Skyline Stratosfare Restaurant. Casual dining is also available during the day in the Cafe. </li>
<li>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.</li>
<li>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. </li></ul>

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.

<b>Operates</b>
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.

<b>Includes</b>
- Gondola ride

<b>Need to Know</b>
Gondola ride is approximately 7-10 minutes one way.

<b>Upgrades</b>
- Add a thrilling luge ride to your Gondola experience.
- Add the Taste of New Zealand buffet at Stratosfare Restaurant
- Stargazing evening event
Day 10 - Day Tour - Doubtful Sound
Doubtful Sound, Queenstown, New Zealand When you discover Doubtful Sound you will be struck by its silence, a silence broken only by birdsong, or maybe the rushing of a distant waterfall.

Your Doubtful Sound adventure begins as you cruise the crystal clear waters of Lake Manapouri. Then its over Wilmot Pass, stopping along the way to experience some of Fiordland's densest rainforest and to view the colourful alpine moss gardens.

On reaching Deep Cove, you will board our spacious catamaran for a three hour cruise that takes in the most dramatic scenery of Doubtful Sound. Our skippers provide a detailed commentary and point out highlights. Keep a look out for wildlife as bottlenose dolphins frequently come alongside our vessel, fur seals bask on the rocks around the fiord and rare penguins can at times be observed. Full Day Tour.

*A picnic lunch can be pre-ordered before your tour for an additional cost. There is also a selection of cafe food aboard the vessel for purchase.
Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Milford Sound
This is one of New Zealand's "must see" locations. Milford Sound is the most famous area in the Fiord land National Park. Cruise along the spectacular Milford Sound with steep mountains rising directly from the ocean floor.

<a href="//youtu.be/fzmKvthx2tA" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Milford-Sound-Nature-Cruise-New-Zealand.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

Enjoy a spectacular day in the Fiordland World Heritage Park including a cruise of the famous Milford Sound. The road to Milford Sound passes through rural towns and skirts around the shores of picturesque lakes backdropped with magnificent mountains. The road then crosses the 'Divide' to enter Cleddau Valley via the Homer Tunnel. Enjoy some of the most stunning scenery to be found anywhere in the world including towering snow-capped peaks, magnificent rainforests and spectacular waterfalls. On arrival at Milford, board a catamaran for a one and a half hour cruise and view the spectacular waterfalls including the Stirling and Bowen Falls and famous Mitre Peak. An optional scenic flight may be taken for the return journey to Queenstown (arranged through your coach driver on the day of travel). For passengers returning by coach there will be a half hour stop at Te Anau before continuing back to Queenstown.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand
Day 12 - Shuttle Transfer Queenstown Accommodation to Airport
Queenstown, New Zealand Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, to the Airport.

<b>Need to Know</b>
1 suitcase & 1 carry-on per person, extra pieces may be charged at $10.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $10.00 each.
Day 12 - New Zealand Domestic Flight - Queenstown to Auckland
Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Queenstown to Auckland (North Island).

Day 12 - International Flight - Auckland to Los Angeles
International flight from Auckland to Los Angeles 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.


Print  |   More Information

[NZ3] Combo Fly-Drive Nth & Sth Island

Click the following link to request a booking. Upon receipt of your request we'll prepare a Firm Quote for your travel dates:

[Request a Firm Quote]

Contact Us

Toll Free:
1-888-359-2877
Hours:
M-F 9am - 5pm
Email:
Send Inquiry