New Zealand Self Drive Explorer [NZ15]

18 Days /16 Nights

Auckland, Rotorua, Martinborough, Wellington, Christchurch, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Te Anau, Stewart Island

Arrive in Auckland, and enjoy the city's blend of 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 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.

Travel to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, also known as the arts and culture capital. A special blend of heritage buildings, museums and galleries, fine food and live entertainment. The central city is nestled between a beautiful harbour and forested hills. Wildlife sanctuaries, islands, seaside villages, ocean beaches and regional parks provide huge scope for outdoor fun.

Christchurch is 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. Everywhere there is an understated elegance that speaks of times gone by and promises a future where anything is possible.

Then to 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.

Much of Stewart Island is part of Rakiura National Park. The island is mostly bush-clad with coastline of rugged outcrops and golden sand beaches. Relax and enjoy the stunning scenery or simply explore the island.

Travel Package Features

• Auckland (2Nights), Rotoura (2 Nights), Napier (1 Night), Martinborough (1 Night), Wellington (2 Nights), Christchurch (1 Night), Hokitika (1 Night), Franz Josef (1 Night), Queenstown (2 Nights), Te Anau (1 Night), Stewart Island (3 Nights)
• International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland, Invercargill to Melbourne, Melbourne to Los Angeles
• Day Tours - Auckland: America's Cup Match Race; Wellington: Travel by Ship to Picton, Travel by Train to Christchurch; Christchurch: Travel by Train to Greymouth; Franz Josef: Terminal Face Walk; Queenstown: Doubtful Sound
• Shuttle Transfers - Airport to Auckland Accommodation, Christchurch Rail Station to Accommodation (return), TeAnau to Bluff, Bluff to Invercargill
• Ferry - From Bluff to Stewart Island (return)
• Car Rental - Pick up in Auckland and Drop off in Wellington, Pick up in Greymouth and Drop off in Queenstown
• 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

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

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 - Day Tour - America's Cup Match Race

The America's Cup Sailing Experience, offers the unique opportunity to sail on these grand prix racing machines!


<a href="//youtu.be/HJkl03eCs1s" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Americas-Cup-Sailing-Experience-Auckland-New-Zealand.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

Enjoy two hours as passengers become the crew and are encouraged to take the helm, exert energy on the grinders or simply sit back and enjoy the action as we sail down the Auckland Harbour. The trip suits people of all experiences and abilities and is the perfect activity in Auckland, 'City of Sails'.

WINTER SCHEDULE - APRIL 1ST TO SEPTEMBER 31ST 2016
Departs: 1pm daily

Age Restrictions: Children under the age of 10 yrs not permitted
Weather Restrictions: Sailings subject to weather conditions

Upgrade Available: 3 Hours Match Cup Race (extra cost) - Not Available from April-October.

Days 4 to 10 - Car Rental - Pick up in Auckland and Drop off in Wellington

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.

Day 4 - Self Drive from Auckland to Rotorua

Today drive from Auckland to Rotorua approximately 4 hours.

North New Zealand Self Drive:
Auckland to Hamilton (2 Hours), Hamilton to Waitomo Caves (1 Hour), Waitomo Caves to Rotorua (3 Hours)

Today begin your self drive from Auckland to explore the Waitomo Caves and Rotorua. From Auckland travel to Hamilton via HWY 1 (78 miles) Hamilton city highlights include Hamilton Gardens with themed displays of trees, flowers and exotic plants, The Waikato Museum of Contemporary Art and History, as well as The Hamilton Zoo, which provides native birds with enormous freedom in a walk through free flight aviary. Continue on HWY 3 until you reach The Waitomo Caves District (48 Miles). Beneath the surface of this limestone region is a series of vast cave systems decorated with speleotherms (stalactites and stalagmites) and glow worms. Black water rafting is an intriguing way to appreciate the underground splendours of Waitomo, you'll be drifting along subterranean streams on your own personal raft. Next travel on to Rotorua (97 miles). Rotorua sits squarely on the Pacific Ring of Fire, so the volcanic activity is part of the city's past and present. Overnight in Rotorua.

<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Auckland,+New+Zealand/Rotorua,+New+Zealand/@-37.492442,175.504974,8z/data=!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x6d0d47fb5a9ce6fb:0x500ef6143a29917!2m2!1d174.7633315!2d-36.8484597!1m5!1m1!1s0x6d6e983d82f6b22b:0x500ef6143a39931!2m2!1d176.2497461!2d-38.1368478!3e0?hl=en-US" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Self-Drive-Auckland-Rotorua.JPG"></a>

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

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Day 6 - Self Drive from Rotorua to Napier

This morning drive from Rotorua by Lake Taupo and on to Napier, Hawkes Bay.

Rotorua sits squarely on the Pacific Ring of Fire, so volcanic activity is part of the city's past and present. Explore the geothermal areas and discover the unique culture of New Zealand's Maori people. Rotorua is entertaining in any weather, at any time of the year.

The road to Taupo will keep you entertained with its unusual, volcanic geography. Stop on the drive to Taupo and walk over the Huka Falls lookout bridge. Take a jet boat ride to experience the scenery of the mighty Waikato River and the stunning Tutukau Gorge.
You'll also drive through large tracts of plantation pine forest.The resort town of Taupo sits on the edge of New Zealand's largest lake, which is well stocked with sizeable trout.

The major entertainment on the road from Taupo to Napier is the fantastic scenery. There's a bit of everything - rugged hills, beautiful valleys, gentle plains and huge vistas. At Tarawera you can walk to the hot springs, which are above the Waipunga River. You might also want to stop at the Waiarua Falls lookout, to view the twin waterfalls.

The town of Eskdale heralds your arrival in Napier. In 1931 a devastating earthquake nearly levelled this city. It was rebuilt in the style of the times, and is now considered the Art Deco Capital of the world. The vineyards of Hawke's Bay are all within easy reach of Napier. Another attraction is the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers.

Rotorua - Taupo 1 Hour Taupo - Napier 1.75 hours
Jet Boat Ride 3 hours (Recommended Not Included)

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Day 6 cont - Self Drive from Napier to Martinborough

Today self-drive from Napier, Hawkes Bay to Martinborough.

Start your self drive from Napier to Hastings. Hastings was devastated by a huge earthquake in 1931. As a result, the city has a great deal of remarkable Art Deco and Spanish Mission-style architecture. Fabulous parks and delicious ice cream are two other reasons to visit Hastings. In the apple and pear season, there's no better place to be. Hastings is New Zealand's leading pipfruit region.

On the drive from Hastings, you'll encounter a wildlife sanctuary at Mt Bruce and the legendary town of Eketahuna (in kiwi slang Eketahuna is the archetypal hick town). The Tararua Windfarm (it makes electricity out of thin air) is a little further north to see it, follow the road to Ballance. After the antique shops of Woodville you can inspect locally made knitwear in Dannevirke, a town originally settled by Scandinavians. The rural service towns of Waipukurau and Waipawa both have historic buildings to view.

Every year in March, Masterton hosts the international Golden Shears competition. Sheep shearing in the Wairarapa is both a sport and an art form. The town's main park has an aviary, aquarium, deer park and a small boating lake. Or you could rediscover your childhood at the local toy museum.

Enjoy the clean, green scenery as you drive north through the friendly townships of the Wairarapa. In Featherston you'll find an interesting locomotive museum. Greytown has many beautiful examples of Victorian architecture and a quaint museum take yourself on a self-guided walk. Carterton is a good place to shop for paua shell souvenirs it's also a place to enjoy daffodils in the spring.

In recent years, Martinborough has become the gourmet capital of the lower North Island. It is home to over 25 boutique vineyards, several fabulous restaurants and a number of upmarket bed and breakfast establishments. From the charming town square, you can walk to most of the local attractions.

Napier to Hastings 45 Minutes
Hastings to Masterton 2.75 hours
Masterton - Martinborough 30 minutes

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Days 6 to 8 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Martinborough

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

Your vacation accommodation offers you the opportunity to experience to a historic retreat offering luxury, boutique accommodation in the heart of one of New Zealand's finest wine growing regions near Wellington. Established in 1882, the hotel offers character, comfort and old style personal attention making it ideal for a romantic weekend away, an indulgent escape or accommodation as part of a holiday or vacation. Diners can enjoy classic New Zealand country cuisine and a wide range of excellent wines in the spacious bistro, which spills out under the verandah onto the historic village square. A cosy open fire keeps pub-goers warm in the hotel's friendly "local" and the evening sun goes down in the garden and petanque pitch set among climbing roses and old fashioned box hedging.

Day 7 - Free Day to Explore the Wineries of Marlborough

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Day 8 - Self Drive from Martinborough to Wellington

Take a short-drive from Martinborough to Wellington approximately 1 hour.

After the town of Featherston, which has an interesting locomotive museum, you'll climb up and over the Rimutaka Range - great views in every direction. Once the mountains are behind you, it's easy driving for the rest of your journey. You'll wind through the picturesque Hutt Valley then a fast moving motorway will whisk you into the city.

Wellington is compact, cultured and full of character. Nestled between the harbour and the hills, the downtown area is ideal for explorations on foot. Enjoy cafes, restaurants, museums and all kinds of shops. Dance, theatre and musical performances are a Wellington specialty. As New Zealand's capital, this city is rich in political history.

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Days 8 to 10 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Wellington

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


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 9 - Free Day to Explore Wellington

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Day 10 - Travel by Ship 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".



The vessel offers a stunning view of the South Island's Kaikoura ranges and the opportunity to spot dolphins and sea birds.

In addition to the beautiful views the vessel offers Comfortable Passenger Lounges, Food Court, Bar, Coffee Counter, Children's Area, Nursery, Outdoor Observation Decks, Workstations, Movie Theatre and Souvenirs Shop.

Upgrade available to Premium Plus Lounge, with complimentary Wi-Fi, Food and Beverages, available.

Day 10 - Travel by Train to Christchurch

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

<a href="//youtu.be/M43DqaMH2J0" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Coastal-Pacific-Picton-Christchurch-New-Zealand.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

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.

Photo Credit: KiwiRail Limited

Day 10 - Shuttle Transfer from Rail Station to Christchurch Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the train station to your vacation accommodation.

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

Days 10 to 11 - 1 Night Accommodation in Christchurch

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

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 11 - Shuttle Transfer Christchurch Accommodation to Tranz Alpine Depot

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand, to the Tranzcoastal Depot Railway Station.

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

Day 11 - Travel by Train from Christchurch to Greymouth

On your vacation travel on the TranzAlpine train between Christchurch and Greymouth, New Zealand.

Your vacation journey from Christchurch to Greymouth takes you from one coast of New Zealand to the other. Through the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland through the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River, this vacation journey will leave you speechless. The TranzAlpine train climbs into the Southern Alps before descending through lush beech rainforest to the West Coast town of Greymouth. Your train travel is 223.8 kilometres long and takes four and a half hours. You will pass through sixteen tunnels and five viaducts, one of which is the Staircase standing seventy-three meters high.

Days 11 to 15 - Car Rental - Pick up in Greymouth and Drop off in Queenstown

Discover New Zealand as you travel by rental car for four 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 (additional cost).

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

Day 11 - Self Drive from Greymouth to Hokitika

The road between Greymouth and Hokitika provides great views of the wild west coast.

Detour to the beach and breathe the salt spray air. Driftwood is the ornamentation of choice for west coast beaches, every shape, size and colour. Hokitika was first settled in 1860, after the discovery of gold on the west coast. It still has the feel of a frontier town, and there are some lovely old buildings to admire.

While in Hokitika search out the many things to do such as the Glowworm Dell, Dorothy Falls or Hokitika Gorge.

Days 11 to 12 - 1 Night Accommodation in Hokitika

The unique location of you accommodation on the shores of the Tasman Sea, allow you to beachcomb and explore craft galleries all from your doorstep.

This rare accommodation allow you to leave your room and walk straight onto an untamed ocean beach. The rear of the hotel opens into the heart of the Hokitika shopping precinct. Numerous artisans and craftspeople live in Hokitika and their workshops featuring jade, wood, gold, paintings and metals are within walking distance of the hotel. Deluxe and Executive rooms, each with a dramatic view of the ocean and positioned just steps from the beach. The location and on-site restaurant, café and bar make this accommodation the best place to stay on "the Coast".

Day 12 - Self Drive from Hokitika to Franz Josef

The road from Hokitika to Franz Josef is rural, but with a wild streak.

The farmland is trying to turn back into forest, and the beauty of the rivers is raw and primeval. A visit to the White Heron colony near Whataroa is a rare experience. You could also enjoy a picnic by the shores of Lake Ianthe or discover the goldfield walkway at Ross.

First explored in 1865, the Franz Josef Glacier has been moving forward at a rate of about 1 metre a day since 1985. Previously it was in retreat. You can walk to the terminal of the glacier in about 10 minutes. Franz Josef township has a good range of accommodation and eating establishments.

A short 14 miles drive south and you'll arrive at Fox Glacier. The glacier's terminal face is just 5 kilometres from the township, and the road to the walking track crosses ancient moraine from earlier advances and retreats. Fed by four alpine glaciers, Fox Glacier was named after an early New Zealand Prime Minister, William Fox.

Days 12 to 13 - 1 Night Accommodation in Franz Josef

Travel to just outside the main Franz Josef Glacier village, your Accommodation is the ideal base for you to enjoy your vacation and everything the Glacier region and the glorious New Zealand West Coast has to offer.

Franz Josef Glacier, a perfect paradox. This remote village is set on the six hundred kilometre coastline in the tranquility of Westland National Park and yet offers rest and recreation at city levels amongst some of the wildest scenery in New Zealand. A wonderful relaxing bush environment with one of only two glaciers in the world that descend from crisp, clear snowfalls into lush, temporate rainforest.

New Zealand's West Coast in the South Island rises from sea level through luxurious rain forest to a breath-taking high country that draws visitors from all over the world on an all-round pilgrimage for the uncluttered and unspoilt beauty that it offers.

Heli-hike on the glacier; take a guided walk; jet boat; go hunting and fishing or take sedate walks. We can make arrangements for all your vacation needs.

Photo Credit: Gareth Eyres; Tourism New Zealand

Day 12 - Day Tour - Terminal Face Walk

This is an informative and leisurely trip to the dynamic face of the glacier. It is here that the Fox River emerges from the ice and where ice collapses are often heard and seen.

Although you will not walk on the glacier, your guide will take you to visit the final resting place of ice that has travelled 13 kilometers from the base of the Southern Alps, all the way to the river valley floor. You will have the opportunity to learn the role of the Fox Glacier in shaping its environment.This two hour trip is reasonably easy going. About one and a half hours is spent walking over gentle terrain. There is a strong focus on providing you with quality interpretation so you can learn about the glacier and the surrounding environment.It is possible to view the cave at the terminal face of the ice from which the Fox River emerges.

Day 13 - Self Drive from Franz Josef to Queenstown

The approximately 5 hour drive from Franz Josef to Queenstown is visually spectactular and an easy drive.

<a href="//www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1vcvWiVILAHChd_8UWr6OaS4_OBe3ngI&usp=sharing" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Franz-Josef-to-Queenstown-Self-Drive-2022.png" width="auto" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

It's a good idea to check the road conditions on any trip, but especially important when driving in the mountains of the West Coast. <a href="//www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic-and-travel-information/" target="_blank">Click here</a> to plan find travel times, roadwork information and road condition updates.

Enjoy waterfalls and river scenery as you arrive in rainforest country. The vineyards of the Gibbston area and bungy jumpers at the Kawarau River Bridge are interesting distractions along the way. Be on the lookout for the famous bra fence; it started as a joke, but it’s become a local legend.

If you have time, stop to explore. Getting there is half the fun! View <a href="//www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1vcvWiVILAHChd_8UWr6OaS4_OBe3ngI&usp=sharing" target="_blank">our map</a> for some ideas.

-Seafood lovers will enjoy a bit of lunch at the South Westland Salmon Farm, stocked with fresh salmon originating all the way from Sacramento California!
-Check out the small town of Haast for lunch
-Take an easy 25 minute walk to see the 94 foot tall Roaring Billy Falls.
-Take in the Tasman Sea from the Knights Point Lookout
-See thunder Creek Falls, just a short 5-minute walk from the road.
-Stretch your legs on a 1-mile hike to Hasst Pass Lookout through the beech forest with the best views of Mt Aspiring National Park
-Load up with bug spray and take a, easy walk through the forest, over 2 swing bridges to enjoy an incredible view of one of the Blue Pools.
-Take a quick walk along Lake Wanaka and snap a photo of the hashtag worthy #ThatWankaTree
-Cardrona Bra Fence, locally known as Bradrona, started as a joke, became a tourist tradition and had lead to raising tons of funds for breast cancer research.
-Take a photo of the most photographed building in New Zealand at the Cardrona Hotel. (also worth a stop to grab an award winning pulled pork burger or nachos.
-Take a quick 10 minute walk up a steep path to have view of the entire valley at Crown Range Lookout.
-More amazing views and even a few of New Zealand's most notorious parrots, the Kea, can be spotted at Summit Lookout. Keep an eye on your car! Keas love to eat windshield wipers!
-Take a quick stop at Arrow Junction Lookout Point for some amazing photos of Wakatipu Basin right off the side of the road.
-Seafood lovers will enjoy a bit of lunch at the South Westland Salmon Farm, stocked with fresh salmon originating all the way from Sacramento California!

Days 13 to 15 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Queenstown

Spend 2 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 14 - Free Day to Explore Queenstown

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Day 15 - Day Tour - Doubtful Sound

Travel to an untouched world deep in the heart of Fiordland National Park. The beauty and vastness of Doubtful Sound will take your breath away as you experience its deep wilderness.

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When you discover Doubtful Sound you will be struck by its silence - a silence broken only by birdsong or the rushing of a distant waterfall. Its beauty and vastness will take your breath away.

Your day begins in Manapouri with a cruise across the picturesque Lake Manapouri followed by a trip across New Zealand's most expensive road over Wilmot Pass, pausing along the way to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest and view Doubtful Sound glistening far below.

In Doubtful Sound, you will board our spacious, purpose built catamaran Patea Explorer for a three hour cruise through this pristine fiord. During the cruise our knowledgeable and friendly nature guides will share with you their passion for the region through their commentary. They will answer questions, point out landmarks and provide you with information about the varied wildlife you may encounter like dolphins, fur seals and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.

This tour ends in Te Anau.

Tour can operate in reverse.

*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.

Days 15 to 16 - 1 Night Accommodation in Te Anau

Tucked away on the shores of New Zealand's second largest lake, Te Anau is an inviting South Island town.

Te Anau is your gateway to the walking capital of the world. Discover the internationally renowned walks of the Milford Track,the Routeburn, Hollyford,Kepler Track and many more. Cruise the remote depths of Milford and Doubtful Sounds, visit the spectacular lakes of Te Anau and Manapouri, experience Te Anau's magical glowworm caves. In Fiordland you can go hiking, caving, boating, diving, biking, play golf, go fly fishing, sky dive. Soar over the wilderness on a scenic flight, explore the water on a kayaking adventure, breathe in the scents of native forest on a guided walk .Cruise the beauty of Milford or Doubtful sounds or simply enjoy a round of golf.

Whatever your desire, whether it be leisure or activity you crave, there's plenty to see and do.

*Optional Upgrade Available to Lakeside property (Pricing Upon Request)

Photo Credit: Destination Fiordland

Day 16 - Shuttle Transfer form Te Anau to the Bluff

Your coach will transfer you from Ta Anau to Stewart Island this morning. Enjoy the beautiful South Island scenery along the way plus an hour long ferry ride to the remotely beautiful Stewart Island!

Days 16 & 18 - Ferry from the Bluff to Stewart Island (return)

During the one-hour ferry crossing between Bluff and Stewart Island keep a look out for wildlife, including seals, dolphins and sea birds. The friendly staff provide informative commentaries and point out highlights.




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Days 16 to 18 - 2 Nights Accommodation on Stewart Island

Stewart Island is perfect for a day excursion or an extended stay.

With georgous bays, beautiful sand beaches and densely forested hills, Stewart Island has a combination of landscapes. Stewart Island has been named `The Home of the Kiwi.` It has the highest number of accessible species in New Zealand.In just one day, one can usually access over 30 species. Bonus sitings can be, Bottlenose Dolphin, Fur Seal, Sealion, the occasional Sea Elephant and whales. A visit to Stewart Island isn't complete without a browse through the Rakiura Museum. The museum has a collection of items and photographs of Stewart Island`s history. For example the Maori settlement, muttonbirding, fishing, timber milling, mining, boat building, schools and churches.

An optional activity Helicopter ride is available on request, this is a great way to see the amazing scenery and the best locations the island has to offer (book in advance, or pay as you go subject to availabilty).

Your accommodation is located right in the centre of Halfmoon Bay within easy walking distance of all amenities: shops, restaurants, post office, gym, museum, information centre and booking office for local day tours and island activities.
Photo Credit: Gareth Eyres; Tourism New Zealand

Day 18 - Shuttle Transfer from the Bluff to Invercargill

Your coach will transport you from the Ferry terminal in Bluff to Invercargill.

Day 18 - International Flight - Invercargill to Auckland

After departing from Invercargill this short Domestic Flight takes you to Auckland

Day 18 - 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.

Note: Flight may include a stop over in Australia.