From Alpine Beauty to Geothermal Marvels

Price

Inclusions

• Round-trip airfare on Air New Zealand from Los Angeles to Queenstown, returning from Rotorua
• One-way airfare from Queenstown to Wellington
• Round-trip private transfers from Queenstown Airport to Hotel
• 3-nights Queenstown, Heritage Hotel Queenstown, Studio Suite with Balcony
  • Queenstown Highlights Tour includes hotel transfers, wine tasting or coffee/tea
  • Milford Sound Fly/Nature Cruise Fly includes hotel transfers from select hotels, return scenic flight to Milford Sound, Milford Sound Nature Cruise and tea/coffee
  • Kjet Jetboat experience
• One-way private transfer Wellington Airport to Hotel
• 2-nights Wellington, Copthorne Hotel Oriental Bay, Superior Harbour View Room
  • Te Papa Highlights Tour includes admission
• 5-days Full Size Car Hire includes unlimited mileage, GST, Standard Damage Waiver and Excess Reduction (Nil)
  • Zealandia by Night includes guided tour and hot kawakawa tea
• 2-nights Napier. The Crown Hotel, 1 Bedroom Premium Suite
  • Art Deco Evening Guided Walk
• 2-nights Rotorua, Regent of Rotorua, Superior Room
  • Mitai Maori Cultural Experience includes hotel transfers, welcoming ceremony, buffet hangi meal and cultural performance
  • Redwoods Treewalk includes daytime entry and a short introductory talk
  • Polynesian Spa, Deluxe Lake Spa Pool Experience includes access to spa, lounge facilities and use of showers
• Breakfast daily
• US/foreign taxes and Fees Including September 11 Security Fee

Exclusions

• New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) NZ$17 on free App or NZ$23 if completed online PLUS the IVL of NZ$35 (NZ$100 from 1 Oct 2024). Payable on application.
• Car Rental excludes additional insurances, petrol, bond, additional drivers (NZ$5+GST per day up to a maximum of NZ$25 +GST for the entire length of rental), Standard Insurance Excess (payable direct) and miscellaneous charges

Map

Itinerary

• Day 1: Depart USA

  This evening make your way to Los Angeles for your overnight flight to Auckland and connecting flight to Queenstown.

• Day 2: International Date Line

  During your flight, you will cross the International Date Line.

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  Day 3: Arrive Queenstown

  After you clear Customs and Immigration, transfer to the domestic terminal for your connecting flight to Queenstown. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a three-night stay. This afternoon, enjoy 60 minutes of unforgettable thrills, spins, and exhilaration across three waterways in one of the world's most stunning locations. The twin engine Jet boat roars across crystal clear Lake Wakatipu at breath- taking speed, surrounded by majestic mountains and mesmerizing scenery. Then the Jet boat zooms under the Kawarau Dam onto the deep green waters of the Kawarau River, complete with lots of 360⁰ spins. Next the adventure heightens as the driver navigates the fast- moving currents of the narrow braided Shotover River, racing up the shallow channels at speeds of up to 95KPH in water that's often less than 5cm deep.

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  Day 4: Queenstown (B)

  No trip to Queenstown is complete without taking in some incredible views, visiting Arrowtown, sampling some tasty local wine, and getting out on the water so the top local spots are handpicked and combined into an amazing half-day sightseeing experience. The tour departs Central Queenstown, and the first stop is an observation point where you can take in one of the best panoramic views in Queenstown. After capturing some incredible photos, enjoy a brief stop overlooking the Shotover River before free time in the charming township Arrowtown. Travel to Gibbston and visit the world's first commercial Bungy jump offering entertainment spectating opportunities. The region is also home to some Middle-earth magic (Lord of the Rings film locations) and becoming increasingly famous for its world-class cold climate wine. Enjoy wine tasting (non-alcoholic substitutes available) and a shared cheese board at a local winery with jaw-dropping views. It's not finished there, on the way back to Queenstown transfer from land to the lake with a picturesque thirty-minute scenic boat cruise on Lake Wakatipu ending your tour at the wharf in the heart of town.

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  Day 5: Milford Sound (B)

  This morning, check-in for your flight to Milford Sound. Your pilot will provide a comprehensive pre-flight briefing, highlighting the route and captivating sights, such as the renowned Skippers Canyon, the Lord of the Rings/Hobbit film locations in the Paradise region, and the Donne glacier. The 35-minute flight concludes with a breathtaking pass over Milford Sound before landing. Your adventure continues in Milford Sound as your pilot personally guides you to the boat docks to board the "Spirit of Milford" for your Nature Cruise. With a maximum of 150 passengers, this cruise ensures an intimate experience, while Nature Guides offer informative commentary. The catamaran navigates the fiord's nooks and crannies, getting up close to sheer rock faces to explore flora and fauna in detail. Following your Milford Sound cruise, your return flight showcases Fiordland National Park's pristine alpine lakes and waterfalls, including the impressive 1900ft Sutherland Falls. This 35-minute flight adds to a total trip duration of approximately five hours. After enjoying your Scenic Flight back from Milford Sound, you'll land in Queenstown, completing your memorable journey.

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  Day 6: Queenstown - Wellington (B)

  After breakfast, transfer to Queenstown Airport for your flight to Wellington. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 2-night stay.

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  Day 7: Wellington (B)

  This morning, make your way to Te Papa for a one-hour tour. Hear stories of our tenacious wildlife, the resilience of the Māori people, and artistic interpretations of life in the South Pacific. Whether you have a tight itinerary or time an extended visit, this tour will give you a great opportunity to understand the vibrant landscapes and cultures you will encounter throughout your trip of New Zealand. Collect your rental vehicle after lunch in time to drive out to Zealandia for a 2.5 hour guided experience. Explore the valley by torchlight as your guide leads you in search of the endemic species found at Zealandia. Experience many of the rare and endangered species and see those who only come out at night. Your group may even see some of the 130 little spotted kiwi who call Zealandia home. Gain insights into New Zealand’s natural history and the significance within Māori culture. The tour will end with a replenishing cup of hot kawakawa tea (bushman’s tea) in the Visitor Centre.

• Day 8: Wellington - Napier (B)

  Embark on an epic Wellington to Napier road trip, where scenic beauty unfolds as you leave the city behind. This journey winds through rugged coastlines, vineyards, and charming coastal towns.

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  Day 9: Napier (B)

  Today is free to explore the region at your leisure. Visit one of the many cellar doors that surround the region, meet the local marine life in the National Aquarium or see the Gannets at Cape Kidnappers. Head out into Napier on this early evening walk around the city’s famous art deco architecture. Stroll around the city center with your guide, well after the sun has stopped beating down and the crowds have left the boardwalk and hear all about Napier’s culture and history. Discover the stories of the people that shaped the city and the buildings they left behind on this easygoing tour.

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  Day 10: Napier - Rotorua (B)

  Join the spectacular Thermal Highway to Taupo, climbing through forest-covered mountains offering great views. At times the road is winding so care is needed. After reaching Taupo the relaxing drive to Rotorua completes a wonderful day. On arrival, make your way to Redwoods Treewalk. This award-winning attraction is great for all ages with 28 suspended bridges and 27 platforms creating 700-metres of treetop experience. Along the walk are informative story boards that will educate all the family on local stories and forestry.

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  Day 11: Rotorua (B)

  Today is free to explore Rotorua at your leisure. This evening, immerse yourself in genuine Maori culture during an evening at Rotorua's Mitai Maori Village. Witness warriors in traditional attire paddling in an ancient canoe and be entranced by weaponry exhibitions. Enjoy the mesmerizing 'haka' and poi dances, along with a glimpse of glowworms in their natural habitat. This 3-hour experience includes round-trip hotel transportation and a traditional 'hangi' feast with your admission.

• Day 12: Depart Rotorua (B)

  After breakfast, there is free time before making your way to the Polynesian Spa. Embrace nature’s sanctuary and slip into five mineral hot pools overlooking Lake Rotorua. Try the cold plunge pool, lounge on geothermally heated recliners and enjoy deluxe changing rooms. Return your rental vehicle before making your way to Rotorua Airport for your flight to Auckland and connecting flight to Los Angeles.