Combo Fly-Drive Nth & Sth Island [NZ3]

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

• 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

After departing from Los Angeles, you will be provided with an evening meal, you can relax, have a drink, watch a movie and rest. You will be given Breakfast before landing in Auckland, New Zealand. (you lose one day crossing the International Date Line but don't worry you'll catch it up again on your return flight to the USA)

The Qantas Boeing 747-400 is equipped with the latest entertainment features of any Airline. The overnight flight to New Zealand can be a good opportunity for sleeping or to watch the latest movies after your evening meal.

Day 2 - Shuttle Transfer Airport to Auckland 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 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.

Your vacation accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, is located on the city's spectacular Waitemata Harbour and features stunning water views, conference facilities, and a rooftop restaurant. Auckland's centre of entertainment, dining, and nightlife, the Viaduct Harbour precinct, is just a short walk away. Experience the rich New Zealand culture as you travel to Rotorua and its geothermal springs. Or maybe travel to New Zealand's Waitakere and Hunua Ranges, to the west and south of the city centre respectively, to take you deep into cool, peaceful rainforests.

Day 2 - Day Tour - Harbour Cruise

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

Head out 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.

Runs 364 days a year, morning, lunch and afternoon.

Insider's Tip - Auckland Explorer Bus

The Auckland Explorer Bus is a hop on, hop off sightseeing tour visiting Auckland's big attractions, with full commentary.

This unique city tour through Auckland departs from the Ferry Building (End of Queen St) every 30 minutes starting at 9:00am, with the last round-trip service departing at 4:00pm (Winter Times on the hour only). You can get on or off at any of the stops on the route. Your ride on the Explorer Bus will take you to some of Auckland's major attractions, including Holy Trinity Cathedral, Mt. Eden, and the Sky Tower. You determine the length of your tour. With no stops, your ride will take approximately one hour. We encourage you to get off the bus and visit the attractions that interest you. The Auckland Explorer operates 365 days of the year, but attractions may not be opened on main public holidays. Tickets can be purchased the day of for $35 NZD for adults and $15 NZD for children (4-16 years of age).

For additional information, please visit: http://www.explorerbus.co.nz/index.cfm.htm

Insider's Tip - Victoria Park Market

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

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

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 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

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

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

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 Day Tour (Not Included) - Hangi Feast and Concert

Be entertained by the award-winning Matariki Concert group, view the raising of the Hangi and feast on traditional New Zealand food!

Experience the warmth and spirit of the natives of New Zealand through their food and culture! View the place where it all starts, the Hangi. A Hangi is the Maori method of cooking in an outdoor pit which produces rich, succulent food with a flavour quite unlike anything else. With this feast you will get to taste traditional hangi foods including breads, soups, salads, meats, vegetables, deserts and drinks. After your meal relax in the cultural centre and prepare to indulge your mind. You will be entertained and enchanted by the poi dance, the haka (war dance), and traditional songs and stick games. By the night's end you will know you have truly experienced a one in a lifetime native tradition!

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

Insider's Tip - Find Adventure in Rotorua

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 Skyswing 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

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Rotorua to Christchurch (South Island).

Day 7 - Shuttle Transfer Airport to Christchurch Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Christchurch, 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 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.

Insider's Tip - Cathedral Square

Mingle with visitors and locals alike at the heart of Christchurch, Cathedral Square.

Take a short walk from your hotel to Cathedral Square, the heart of Christchurch. Located at the centre of the "four avenues" that form the boundaries of inner Christchurch and directly in front of the Christ Church Cathedral, the Square is home to public orators and entertainers and surrounded by historic buildings, including the old city post office. There are many restaurants, bars and cinemas all in the vicinity along with regular markets and several food stalls.

Cathedral Square is home to several historic Christchurch landmarks including The Godley Statue which was the first ever public statue in New Zealand. Erected in honor of the founder of Canterbury and cast from the metal of Russian guns used in the Crimean War the visit to this work of art is sure to be a memorable one! Be sure to check out a new addition, The Chalice. This hard to miss sculpture will be the towering inverted cone alongside the Cathedral. Including a World War One memorial, a four lime tree tribute to the four ships of Canterbury and the seven tree gift from the US Navy, The Square is definitely a place to pause and check out what Christchurch is about!

Insider's Tip - Christchurch City Tram

Tram Tour of Christchurch

The 2.5 kilometre track takes about 25-minutes to complete and allows you to take in many of the ‘must see’ attractions. These include Cathedral Square, Aquarium of Discovery, The Arts Centre, The Art Gallery, Botanical Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Punting on the Avon, New Regent Street and Cathedral Junction to name just a few.

The last tram leaves Cathedral Square 30 minutes prior to closing time.

Day 8 - Day Tour - Alpine Safari

On your vacation travel by deluxe coach across the Canterbury Plains to the Waimakariri Gorge on New Zealand's South Island.

Participate in a vacation adventure that won't be forgotten soon. Spray jackets, hats and lifejackets are issued to each passenger before boarding the jet-boat for a ride up one of New Zealand's major snow-fed rivers. Weave in and out of rock faces, white water rapids and high walled rock canyons. From the headwaters of the Waimakariri Gorge you will then travel by four wheel drive through a backcountry tour enroute to Te Kowhi Country Café (lunch). After lunch travel to Arthur's Pass. Your return journey is on the famous TranzAlpine train which is rated one of the top six train journeys in the world. Travel through numerous tunnels, viaducts, river canyons and the rainforest of the Arthur's Pass National Park.

Day 9 - Shuttle Transfer Christchurch Accommodation to Airport

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

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 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

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, 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 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.

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, New Zealand. 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! Enjoy a dinner or relax in the bar in the Skyline Restaurant. Casual dining is also available during the day in the Cafe. Thrillseekers can hurtle down the winding downhill Skyline Luge - it`s the fastest fun on wheels! or maybe take in the challenge of AJ Hackett`s Ledge Bungy or Swing, or take off on a tandem parapente flight. Various walking tracks can also be accessed from Skyline, from an easy 30 minute walk to a full day hike.

Skyline was also a finalist in the `Best Visitor Attraction` in the New Zealand Tourism Awards in 1999 and 2001.

Day 10 - Day Tour - Doubtful Sound

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.

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.

Day 12 - Shuttle Transfer Queenstown Accommodation to Airport

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

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 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

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.