Traditions and Tales: Delving into New Zealand's Cultural Heritage

Price

Inclusions

• Private arrival transfer Auckland Airport to Hotel
• 2-nights Auckland, Travelodge Wynyard Quarter, Guest Room
  • Auckland Māori Luxury Tour including lunch
  • Auckland Museum Entry and Aotearoa Unveiled Tour
• 9-days Group P Intermediate SUV including unlimited mileage
• 1-night Omapere, The Sands Hotel or similar
  • The Manea Experience
• 2-nights Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands, Superior Seaview Room
  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission
  • Island and Wildlife Day Cruise
• 1-night Coromandel, Grand Mercure Puka Park, Rimu Chalet
• 2-hour The Full Monty Cruise
• 2-nights Rotorua, Sudima Rotorua, Superior King Room
  • Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village Tour
• 2-nights Napier, Scenic Hotel Te Pania, Pacific View Room
  • Art Deco Evening Guided Walk
• 1-night Wellington, Travelodge Wellington, Executive Room
  • Wellington Cable Car Return Journey
• Te Papa Museum Highlights Tour
• 5-days Group P Intermediate SUV including unlimited mileage
• 1-night Christchurch, The Mayfair, Mayfair King
• Christchurch Tramway Restaurant
• 2-nights Dunedin, Fable Dunedin, Superior King Room
  • Castle to Cruise Tour
  • Olveston House Experience
• 2-nights Queenstown, The Dairy Private Hotel, Habitat Room
  • Milford Sound Fly/Nature Cruise/Fly
• Breakfast daily (except Auckland)

Exclusions

New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) NZ$17 on free APP or NZ$23 if completed online. An IVL fee is NZ$100 is also payable on application.

Map

Itinerary

• 

  Day 1 - Auckland

  On arrival at Auckland Airport, meet your driver in the Arrivals Hall for your private transfer to your Auckland accommodation for a 2-night stay.

  This afternoon, make your way to the Auckland Museum for an intimate and high-end guided tour offers a rare opportunity to delve into New Zealand’s past, led by a curator-trained guide who will share their wealth of knowledge and passion for this remarkable land. The tour offers fascinating insights into the indigenous flora and fauna, Māori culture, and the history of our diverse and youthful nation. This authentic and private experience, behind-the-scenes and in key galleries at Auckland Museum

  • 

    Travelodge Hotel Wynyard Quarter (Superior)

    Located in the heart of Auckland's fast-developing Wynyard Quarter precinct, Travelodge Hotel Auckland Wynyard Quarter offers 154 guest rooms, some boasting picturesque harbor views, alongside a ground floor retail area and a multi-level car park.

    As a basic yet well-positioned 4-star hotel, Travelodge Hotel Auckland Wynyard Quarter caters to travelers seeking stylish yet affordable accommodation in an upscale neighborhood. With its design-led interiors and mid-scale offerings, the hotel provides a comfortable retreat for guests looking to experience the best of central Auckland.  With no on-site restaurant or pool, guests are encouraged to explore the surrounding dining district, where over 50 eateries await within a 5-minute walk.

    Situated amidst Auckland's bustling waterfront, the hotel provides easy access to popular attractions like Auckland Viaduct, Britomart, and Halsey Wharf. As Wynyard Quarter undergoes rapid development, Travelodge stands as a central fixture, offering a convenient base for exploring the area's urban regeneration projects and cultural precincts.

    Travelodge Hotel Wynyard Quarter  (Superior)
• 

  Day 2 - Auckland (L)

  Enjoy a wonderful day of sightseeing and learning about indigenous Māori culture throughout the day as you discover Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland) and Te Wao Nui o Tiriwa (Waitakere Ranges) on Auckland’s West Coast. View several ancient volcanoes and marvel at the architecture of the Auckland Museum, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful buildings, as you visit the Auckland Domain.

  Explore the boutique suburb of Parnell, restored in the old colonial style with many beautiful mansions and along Tamaki Drive, one of the world’s most beautiful city drives. See several stunning beaches along Auckland’s shoreline including Mission Bay, arguably Auckland’s most well-known beach with lovely golden sand and safe swimming.

  Drive over the famous Auckland Harbour Bridge spanning the Waitemata Harbour, see the Hauraki Gulf and great views of the mystical island volcano Rangitoto Island, Auckland’s largest and youngest volcano at 600 years old. Visit the Arataki Visitor Centre at the gateway to Auckland’s famous West Coast, which is well-known for its interesting displays and magnificent views over the Manukau Harbour. Enjoy overlooking spectacular ocean vistas along Auckland’s wild West Coast in our famous Waitakere Ranges.

  Discover Te Wao Nui o Tiriwa (Māori for ancient forest of Tiriwa), the indigenous forest covering the Waitakere Ranges on Auckland's famous west coast. Walk among unique indigenous trees and plants, learn their Māori names and their importance as both food and medicine. Meet some of our shy bush-dwelling native birds. Hear the lore and legends of the bush. Get up close to some of New Zealand’s unique indigenous flora and fauna. Explore Te Taihauuru (the famous ‘Wild West Coast’) with its unique and spectacular soaring cliffs. Return to Downtown Auckland after a wonderful day with a greater appreciation of Auckland and New Zealand’s Māori culture along the way.

   

  • 

    Travelodge Hotel Wynyard Quarter (Superior)

    Located in the heart of Auckland's fast-developing Wynyard Quarter precinct, Travelodge Hotel Auckland Wynyard Quarter offers 154 guest rooms, some boasting picturesque harbor views, alongside a ground floor retail area and a multi-level car park.

    As a basic yet well-positioned 4-star hotel, Travelodge Hotel Auckland Wynyard Quarter caters to travelers seeking stylish yet affordable accommodation in an upscale neighborhood. With its design-led interiors and mid-scale offerings, the hotel provides a comfortable retreat for guests looking to experience the best of central Auckland.  With no on-site restaurant or pool, guests are encouraged to explore the surrounding dining district, where over 50 eateries await within a 5-minute walk.

    Situated amidst Auckland's bustling waterfront, the hotel provides easy access to popular attractions like Auckland Viaduct, Britomart, and Halsey Wharf. As Wynyard Quarter undergoes rapid development, Travelodge stands as a central fixture, offering a convenient base for exploring the area's urban regeneration projects and cultural precincts.

    Travelodge Hotel Wynyard Quarter  (Superior)
• 

  Day 3 - Omapere

  Collect your rental vehicle from the downtown location and head north to Omapere. On the way explore antique and craft stores in Maungaturoto and Paparoa or visit the Matakohe Kauri Museum.

  Discover Waipoua Forest - home to the majestic Tane Mahuta, the Lord of the Forest and largest Kauri tree in the world.  Continue to the Hokianga Harbour, where Māori first arrived in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Look out to the stunning sand dunes which after a short ferry ride you could be sandboarding down.

• 

  Day 4 - Bay of Islands (B)

  This morning stop at Manea Footprints of Kupe for a 75-minute multisensory journey of guided storytelling – through art, taonga (cultural treasures), film, performance, digital interaction, and the splendor of Hokianga’s natural surroundings. Manea Footprints of Kupe offers you a unique cultural encounter, journeying into te ao Māori, the Māori world. The cultural and heritage center on the shores of the spectacular Hokianga Harbour is your first stop on this journey. You will feel the warmth of welcoming stories and traditions that will be shared.  Continue to across to the East Coast to the Bay of Islands for a two-night stay.

  This afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of all the major treasures at Waitangi. The guides bring the Treaty story to life and introduce you to some of the key personalities and events that have shaped the nation. Many of the guides descend from signatories to the Treaty – they bring a personal connection to Waitangi that will enhance your understanding of the relevance of the Treaty in contemporary Aotearoa New Zealand. Waitangi’s resident performance group, Te Pitowhenua, gives you a special introduction to New Zealand’s unique indigenous culture in Te Whare Rūnanga. Enjoy a fun-filled and spine-tingling performance of waiata (singing), poi, stick games, Māori weaponry, as well as the famous haka. All performances begin with a traditional Māori welcome outside the meeting house. After the show you will have the opportunity to interact with the performers, ask questions and have your photo taken with the group.

  • 

    Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands (Superior)

    Situated within the serene Waitangi National Trust Reserve, Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands offers a tranquil waterfront retreat spread across 60 acres of subtropical gardens. As one of the premier Bay of Islands hotels near Paihia, it seamlessly blends nature with spacious comfort, providing a harmonious escape amidst stunning surroundings.

    Featuring 140 guest rooms, including 4 suites and accessible accommodations, each room boasts its own private patio or balcony, offering picturesque views of the bay, harbor, or lush gardens.

    Step outside to discover a lagoon-style swimming pool and rock pools with cascading water, creating a serene atmosphere for relaxation. Guests can also enjoy friendly competition on the tennis court or unwind in the hot tub.

    Indulge in classic Kiwi delights with a visit to Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen, where spectacular views complement the culinary experience.

    Additional onsite amenities include a massage studio for ultimate relaxation. The hotel holds a prestigious 4-star and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rating, reflecting its commitment to environmental sustainability, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan guiding its future initiatives. Whether seeking tranquility amidst nature or exciting recreational activities, Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands promises an unforgettable stay for discerning travelers.

    Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands  (Superior)
• 

  Day 5 - Bay of Islands (B,L)

  Today, board the Carino Wildlife Cruise for a change to see amazing wildlife and the opportunity to give back to the local community and help protect local marine wildlife. Guests contribute directly to marine conservation and research and a portion of every fare is gifted to the Carino Marine Explorers Trust. The island and wildlife day cruise allows you to experience the natural world in the Bay of Islands and provides a chance to make a real difference to the local environment. The 6-hour island and wildlife day cruise includes relaxed sailing, a chance to view wild dolphins, penguins, an island stop for swimming, snorkeling and a BBQ lunch.

   

   

  • 

    Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands (Superior)

    Situated within the serene Waitangi National Trust Reserve, Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands offers a tranquil waterfront retreat spread across 60 acres of subtropical gardens. As one of the premier Bay of Islands hotels near Paihia, it seamlessly blends nature with spacious comfort, providing a harmonious escape amidst stunning surroundings.

    Featuring 140 guest rooms, including 4 suites and accessible accommodations, each room boasts its own private patio or balcony, offering picturesque views of the bay, harbor, or lush gardens.

    Step outside to discover a lagoon-style swimming pool and rock pools with cascading water, creating a serene atmosphere for relaxation. Guests can also enjoy friendly competition on the tennis court or unwind in the hot tub.

    Indulge in classic Kiwi delights with a visit to Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen, where spectacular views complement the culinary experience.

    Additional onsite amenities include a massage studio for ultimate relaxation. The hotel holds a prestigious 4-star and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rating, reflecting its commitment to environmental sustainability, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan guiding its future initiatives. Whether seeking tranquility amidst nature or exciting recreational activities, Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands promises an unforgettable stay for discerning travelers.

    Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands  (Superior)
• 

  Day 6 - Coromandel (B)

  Journey south to Auckland and then around to the Coromandel Peninsula for an overnight stay.

  • 

    Grand Mercure Puka Park (Superior)

    Set in the tranquil surroundings of Pauanui Beach, Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort offers a secluded retreat just 800 meters from the expansive sandy shore and embraced by the slopes of Mount Pauanui.

    The resort boasts 42 chalets thoughtfully positioned amidst the foothills of Mount Pauanui, featuring a variety of accommodation options ranging from cozy one-bedroom Rooms and Executive Apartments to spacious Executive Suites and the grand three-bedroom Royal Puka Suite. Each chalet boasts its own balcony, offering serene bush views.

    Guests can savor delectable local cuisine in the intimate ambiance of the resort's Restaurant, which also offers stunning views. Additional amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, rejuvenating spa pool, fitness center, tennis court, and bike rentals. Nearby, guests can enjoy an international 18-hole golf course and excellent fishing opportunities.

    Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Coromandel Peninsula, Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort provides the ideal escape for couples, groups, and families seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Explore the pristine sands of Pauanui Beach, wander through lush bush reserves, or venture to the local Pauanui Paintball attraction for some outdoor adventure. Whether seeking relaxation or recreation, this resort promises an unforgettable getaway amidst nature's embrace.

    Grand Mercure Puka Park  (Superior)
• 

  Day 7 - Rotorua (B)

  This morning, explore 12 kilometers of rugged volcanic coastline visiting nearby islands, stunning beaches, including Lonely Bay, Cooks Beach, Hahei and the spectacular Cathedral Cove where Prince Caspian (Chronicles of Narnia) was filmed. Venture across the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve where you’ll observe an abundance of marine and bird life. Get up close and personal with towering pinnacles, giant blowholes and huge sea caves including Orua Sea Cave, one of the largest in New Zealand and only accessible by boat. Throughout the tour your local guide will highlight Mercury Bay’s rich and colorful history giving a fabulous balance of information and time to soak up the sights and sounds.

  After the tour concludes, continue to Rotorua for a 2-night stay.

  • 

    Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (Superior)

    Positioned in one of Rotorua's prime spots, Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua offers stunning views of the serene, steaming waters of Lake Rotorua and is just a short stroll from the renowned Polynesian Spa.

    The 250-room hotel presents a variety of room options, ranging from Superior King and Twin Rooms to Family Rooms and an Executive Junior Suite. Each room boasts modern amenities including an ensuite bathroom, hairdryer, tea/coffee making facilities, TV, individually controlled heating, iron/ironing board, mini fridge, and in-room safe.

    Guests can make use of convenient facilities such as a self-service laundry and luggage storage. Take a dip in the heated geothermal swimming pool or unwind with a drink at the on-site bar.

    Indulge at the on-site Ōkāreka Restaurant buffet breakfast, the perfect start to a thrilling day in Rotorua. The restaurant also offers a selection of lunch and dinner options with a la carte service. For those preferring to dine in the comfort of their room, room service is available. The talented chefs pride themselves on their fresh approach to fine dining, infusing each dish with a special 'Kiwi' twist using locally sourced ingredients and premium produce.

    Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua  (Superior)
• 

  Day 8 - Rotorua

  A leisurely day in Rotorua to explore at your leisure.

  During the day, make your way to Whakarewarewa, the Living Māori Village for a guided tour.  Explore an authentic living Māori village where people live daily, using natural geothermal resources to cook, bathe and heat their homes as they have for centuries. View the geothermal wonders of Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley including the world-famous Pōhutu geyser, boiling mud-pools, steam vents and bubbling pools. Learn what it’s like to live in the challenging geothermal plateau where daily life includes cooking in the bubbling pools and steam vents, and bathing in the refreshing therapeutic waters. Take in our various historical landmarks and buildings, including an active Marae (meeting grounds and focal point of Maori communities), our WWII Memorial Archway, historic churches, and tapu (sacred) burial grounds.

  • 

    Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (Superior)

    Positioned in one of Rotorua's prime spots, Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua offers stunning views of the serene, steaming waters of Lake Rotorua and is just a short stroll from the renowned Polynesian Spa.

    The 250-room hotel presents a variety of room options, ranging from Superior King and Twin Rooms to Family Rooms and an Executive Junior Suite. Each room boasts modern amenities including an ensuite bathroom, hairdryer, tea/coffee making facilities, TV, individually controlled heating, iron/ironing board, mini fridge, and in-room safe.

    Guests can make use of convenient facilities such as a self-service laundry and luggage storage. Take a dip in the heated geothermal swimming pool or unwind with a drink at the on-site bar.

    Indulge at the on-site Ōkāreka Restaurant buffet breakfast, the perfect start to a thrilling day in Rotorua. The restaurant also offers a selection of lunch and dinner options with a la carte service. For those preferring to dine in the comfort of their room, room service is available. The talented chefs pride themselves on their fresh approach to fine dining, infusing each dish with a special 'Kiwi' twist using locally sourced ingredients and premium produce.

    Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua  (Superior)
• 

  Day 9 - Rotorua (B)

  After breakfast, continue your journey to Napier. The scenic drive offers plenty of opportunities to take in the sites along the way, including Huka Falls and Taupo.

  This evening, head out for an early evening guided 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.

  • 

    Scenic Hotel Te Pania (Superior)

    The Scenic Hotel Te Pania boasts a prime waterfront location along Napier’s Marine Parade, offering easy access to the city's vibrant art deco district and other captivating attractions.

    Featuring 109 superior rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed to ensure a comfortable stay, guests can choose between a king bed or two double beds. All accommodations include modern amenities such as an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, Sky TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and internet access. Some rooms offer ocean views, bathrobes, and a mini fridge, while all showcase floor-to-ceiling windows framing panoramic views of the picturesque Hawkes Bay.

    The hotel provides an array of facilities for guests' convenience, including complimentary access to Ocean Spa Gym, guest laundry and dry-cleaning services, car parking, room service, and a tourist information and booking service. Additionally, guests can dine at the fully licensed Curve Restaurant and Bar, which celebrates the hotel's coastal location and natural surroundings. Inspired by the rolling hills of wine country and the arc of Hawke's Bay coastline, The Curve highlights fresh New Zealand flavors, utilizing seasonal local produce to deliver exceptional culinary experiences in the heart of Napier.

    Scenic Hotel Te Pania  (Superior)
• 

  Day 10: Napier (B)

  Today relax or explore Napier and surrounds at your leisure. The region is renowned for wine and food, and there are many opportunities to drop into a cellar door.

  • 

    Scenic Hotel Te Pania (Superior)

    The Scenic Hotel Te Pania boasts a prime waterfront location along Napier’s Marine Parade, offering easy access to the city's vibrant art deco district and other captivating attractions.

    Featuring 109 superior rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed to ensure a comfortable stay, guests can choose between a king bed or two double beds. All accommodations include modern amenities such as an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, Sky TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and internet access. Some rooms offer ocean views, bathrobes, and a mini fridge, while all showcase floor-to-ceiling windows framing panoramic views of the picturesque Hawkes Bay.

    The hotel provides an array of facilities for guests' convenience, including complimentary access to Ocean Spa Gym, guest laundry and dry-cleaning services, car parking, room service, and a tourist information and booking service. Additionally, guests can dine at the fully licensed Curve Restaurant and Bar, which celebrates the hotel's coastal location and natural surroundings. Inspired by the rolling hills of wine country and the arc of Hawke's Bay coastline, The Curve highlights fresh New Zealand flavors, utilizing seasonal local produce to deliver exceptional culinary experiences in the heart of Napier.

    Scenic Hotel Te Pania  (Superior)
• 

  Day 11 - Wellington (B)

  On arrival, make your way to 280 Lambton Quay for a return scenic ride on Wellington Cable Car. There is simply no better way to experience the hidden charm that Wellington has to offer than to take this 5-minute ride from the heart of the city center, up through the hillside terraced houses of Kelburn, to the lookout perched high above the city

  • 

    Travelodge Wellington (Superior)

    Situated in the heart of Wellington's central business district, Travelodge Wellington offers convenient accommodation within walking distance of key attractions. The hotel stands just 600 meters from the iconic Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, providing easy access to cultural exhibits and exhibitions. Wellington's vibrant waterfront precinct, featuring bustling cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues, is a mere 10-minute stroll away, while the popular Cuba Street shopping district is also within proximity.

    Stay in any of the tastefully furnished and well-appointed 132 hotel rooms including spacious standard rooms and family-friendly options. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs.

    Guests can start their day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel's on-site restaurant, which also offers a selection of light meals and beverages throughout the day. For those seeking relaxation, the hotel features a fitness center where guests can unwind after a busy day of exploring the city.

    Travelodge Wellington  (Superior)
• 

  Day 12 - Christchurch (B,D)

  This morning, visit Te Papa Musuem and learn about how New Zealand came to be and what the future holds for this island nation on a privately guided tour of the national museum. Explore the diverse natural environment, the continued growth of Māori culture, and what the national art collection has to say about living in New Zealand. Discover intricate details and ask in-depth questions about New Zealand with your own personal guide who will take up close to a diverse array of taonga dotted around the museum.

  Return your rental vehicle to Wellington Airport for your flight to Christchurch (not included).

  On arrival, collect your rental vehicle and make your way to your accommodation for an overnight stay.

  This evening, board the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant for a view the inner city while enjoying an evening dinner.

  • 

    The Mayfair Christchurch (Deluxe)

    For the modern traveler seeking something truly special, The Mayfair stands out as a gem in Christchurch's heritage-rich landscape, and only steps aways from some of the city’s finest restaurants, the famous Botanic Gardens and Riverside Market.

    This boutique, 67 room hotel offers a range of options from the Mayfair King to the enormous Top of House Suite, with views of Hagley Park. All rooms provide ample space, floor-to-ceiling windows for natural light, and comfortable furnishing. Some rooms, like the hotel suites, have a balcony offering uninterrupted views and a separate lounge featuring a kitchenette and dining table for relaxed dining. Bathrooms are just as luxurious, with tile furnishings, luminous lighting, and ample space.

     The various suites come with lots of perks, such as unlimited barista-made coffee, complimentary snacks, a gift pack on arrival and a welcome drink.  Each room comes with an impressive tablet, which is like your personal assistant in the room. It can be used to order a sizeable variety of complimentary items, such as toothpaste and deodorant, or to make restaurant bookings.

    For dining, Majestic at Mayfair offers an all-day brunch, a cocktail bar, and an evening menu in a modern setting. If you are in the mood for lighter fare during the day, enjoy high tea at The Mayfair High Tea. Cooked-to-order breakfast is available from 6:30AM and 24-hour room service is also an option.

    Bicycles are available to borrow, and whilst there is no gym onsite, the hotel partners with a nearby gym for guest access.

     

     

    The Mayfair Christchurch  (Deluxe)
• 

  Day 13 - Dunedin (B)

  After breakfast, hit the road and travel south to Dunedin. The road to Dunedin is lined with breathtaking beaches and fascinating geology.

  Visit Moeraki where giant perfectly rounded boulders lie strewn across the beach. At Katiki Point, see fur seals and yellow-eyed penguin resting alongside the Moeraki Lighthouse. Stroll down the stunning white sand beaches of Kakanui, Waikouati and Karitane.

  Orokonui Eco-Sanctuary - a 300-hectare, wildlife sanctuary and home to many of New Zealand's native birds and reptiles, is a must-see.

  • 

    Fable Dunedin (Deluxe)

    Nestled within a beautifully restored Victorian-era building at the heart of Dunedin, Fable Hotel stands as an exquisite sanctuary in the city center. Boasting 50 meticulously appointed luxury rooms, the hotel exudes a perfect blend of contemporary sophistication and homage to the local Scottish heritage through touches of tartan. Dating back to 1862, Fable Hotel embodies a harmonious fusion of Southern charm and modern indulgence.

    Each room offers a range of amenities including mini-fridges, complimentary WiFi, and private bathrooms equipped with showers, designer toiletries, and hair dryers. Guests also enjoy in-room conveniences such as phones, safes, and spacious work desks.

    The hotel's on-site restaurant, The Press Club, celebrates Dunedin's rich history by showcasing locally sourced organic ingredients and reimagining Southern flavors with innovative twists. Inspired by the city's gold-rush era, when esteemed editors frequented the hotel, The Press Club offers a culinary journey steeped in tradition and creativity. Guests can start their day with cooked-to-order breakfasts available daily for a fee and indulge in the convenience of 24-hour room service throughout their stay.

    Beyond the culinary delights, Fable Dunedin offers a range of amenities to enhance guests' stay, including a fitness center for those seeking to stay active, and elegant event spaces perfect for weddings, conferences, and other special occasions.

     

    Fable Dunedin  (Deluxe)
• 

  Day 14 - Dunedin (B)

  This morning, take a wonderful journey back in time, on a guided tour of New Zealand's castle. Built in 1871, Larnach Castle took two hundred workers roughly three years to build the exterior shell and a further twelve years for master European craftsmen to finish the interior. Over the years the castle and grounds fell into ruin and disrepair. In 1967 the property was bought by the Barker family who have spent many years restoring it to its former grandeur.  During the tour you’ll see the magnificent carved ceilings, antiques and painstakingly restored original features. Hear the scandalous and tragic history of the original owner, William Larnach who took his own life with a single shot to the head.

  You’ll then meet your guide at the bus and continue the tour along the Peninsula. Join an invigorating Wildlife Cruise around Taiaroa Head, home to the world's only mainland nesting place of royal albatross. Watch as these huge birds glide in from the ocean and soar high above their hillside nests. You’ll cruise beneath a historic lighthouse, perched high above volcanic cliffs. Watch as New Zealand fur seals play and swim around the rocky outcrops below. Then it’s a short way out to sea to spot other species of albatross, cormorants, petrels and other rarely seen ocean birds. Occasionally you might spot blue penguins, dusky or hectors dolphins or sea lions.

   

  • 

    Fable Dunedin (Deluxe)

    Nestled within a beautifully restored Victorian-era building at the heart of Dunedin, Fable Hotel stands as an exquisite sanctuary in the city center. Boasting 50 meticulously appointed luxury rooms, the hotel exudes a perfect blend of contemporary sophistication and homage to the local Scottish heritage through touches of tartan. Dating back to 1862, Fable Hotel embodies a harmonious fusion of Southern charm and modern indulgence.

    Each room offers a range of amenities including mini-fridges, complimentary WiFi, and private bathrooms equipped with showers, designer toiletries, and hair dryers. Guests also enjoy in-room conveniences such as phones, safes, and spacious work desks.

    The hotel's on-site restaurant, The Press Club, celebrates Dunedin's rich history by showcasing locally sourced organic ingredients and reimagining Southern flavors with innovative twists. Inspired by the city's gold-rush era, when esteemed editors frequented the hotel, The Press Club offers a culinary journey steeped in tradition and creativity. Guests can start their day with cooked-to-order breakfasts available daily for a fee and indulge in the convenience of 24-hour room service throughout their stay.

    Beyond the culinary delights, Fable Dunedin offers a range of amenities to enhance guests' stay, including a fitness center for those seeking to stay active, and elegant event spaces perfect for weddings, conferences, and other special occasions.

     

    Fable Dunedin  (Deluxe)
• 

  Day 15 - Queenstown (B)

  Step back in time again with a one-hour tour of Olveston, built for Dunedin businessman, collector and philanthropist David Theomin, his wife Marie and their two children Edward and Dorothy. Designed by acclaimed English architect Sir Ernest George, Olveston was built as a family home furnished with fine art, furniture and artefacts purchased from all around the world. Intended for future generations of Theomin’s to enjoy, this was not to be the case as the Theomin children died without heirs. Surviving the death of her father, mother and elder brother, Miss Dorothy Theomin lived at Olveston until her death in 1966, when it was discovered the house, and the original contents were gifted to the City of Dunedin. Opened as a historic house museum in 1967, Olveston is a time capsule as little has changed inside the house since it was occupied as a family home between 1906 to 1966. Olveston is an authentic and original historic home depicting the life of a wealthy merchant family in the early part of the twentieth century.

  Leaving Dunedin, the road winds through the heart of Central Otago taking in characterful settlements such as Middlemarch, Ranfurly, Oturehua and Clyde, as well as the larger towns of Alexandra, Cromwell, Arrowtown, before arriving in Queenstown for a 2-night stay.

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    The Dairy Private Hotel (Deluxe)

    Immerse yourself in the comfort of a private retreat at The Dairy Private Hotel – a true home away from home. Unwind in our luxurious lounge, where complimentary drinks await you every evening from 5pm to 6pm. Alternatively, cozy up with a good book in our private library or soak in the breathtaking landscape from our outdoor jacuzzi.

    Originally Queenstown's dairy dating back to the 1920s, The Dairy Private Hotel offers a unique blend of history and luxury. The 13 guest rooms are individually decorated with botanical-themed wallpaper from the esteemed British interiors brand House of Hackney, complemented by eclectic heirloom furniture and sumptuous linens. Each room is equipped with Superfood Bath Amenities, a Smart TV, air-conditioning/heating, ironing facilities, tea/coffee making amenities, and a complimentary mini bar.

    Indulge in the floral elegance of our Habitat King rooms or experience the cozy charm of the Habitat Queen rooms. For a truly majestic experience, choose our Oasis rooms with their dramatic scenic backdrop, or opt for the luxurious Junior Suite adorned in romantic floral patterns, complete with a private balcony.

    The Dairy Private Hotel is committed to sustainability, with a strict no single-use plastic policy. Additionally, a portion of their profits goes towards supporting partner charities in the fight against food insecurity.

    Start your day with a complimentary buffet continental breakfast, complete with a morning espresso. Don't forget to visit our Sweet Station to fill your candy bags with complimentary treats, ensuring you have the energy for a day of exploring Queenstown's wonders.

    The Dairy Private Hotel  (Deluxe)
• 

  Day 16 - Queenstown (B)

  This morning, take to the skies on a 35-minute scenic flight from Queenstown to Milford Sound. From the sky, view the famous Skippers Canyon, the Paradise region (recently made popular as film locations for Lord of the Rings/Hobbit Trilogies), and the Donne glacier among many other awe-inspiring features.

  The second half of the adventure begins in Milford Sound, where your pilot personally escorts you to the boat docks where you will board the “Spirit of Milford” to enjoy your Milford Sound Nature Cruise. The catamaran explores nooks and crannies along the edge of the fiord, nudging into sheer rock faces to examine flora and fauna in detail.

  Following your Milford Sound cruise your return flight takes in many of the pristine alpine lakes and waterfalls that Fiordland National Park is recognized for, including the Sutherland Falls which span 580m (1900ft). Flight time is another 35 minutes, with a total trip time of approximately five hours.

  The remainder of your afternoon is at leisure.

  • 

    The Dairy Private Hotel (Deluxe)

    Immerse yourself in the comfort of a private retreat at The Dairy Private Hotel – a true home away from home. Unwind in our luxurious lounge, where complimentary drinks await you every evening from 5pm to 6pm. Alternatively, cozy up with a good book in our private library or soak in the breathtaking landscape from our outdoor jacuzzi.

    Originally Queenstown's dairy dating back to the 1920s, The Dairy Private Hotel offers a unique blend of history and luxury. The 13 guest rooms are individually decorated with botanical-themed wallpaper from the esteemed British interiors brand House of Hackney, complemented by eclectic heirloom furniture and sumptuous linens. Each room is equipped with Superfood Bath Amenities, a Smart TV, air-conditioning/heating, ironing facilities, tea/coffee making amenities, and a complimentary mini bar.

    Indulge in the floral elegance of our Habitat King rooms or experience the cozy charm of the Habitat Queen rooms. For a truly majestic experience, choose our Oasis rooms with their dramatic scenic backdrop, or opt for the luxurious Junior Suite adorned in romantic floral patterns, complete with a private balcony.

    The Dairy Private Hotel is committed to sustainability, with a strict no single-use plastic policy. Additionally, a portion of their profits goes towards supporting partner charities in the fight against food insecurity.

    Start your day with a complimentary buffet continental breakfast, complete with a morning espresso. Don't forget to visit our Sweet Station to fill your candy bags with complimentary treats, ensuring you have the energy for a day of exploring Queenstown's wonders.

    The Dairy Private Hotel  (Deluxe)
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  Day 17 - Depart Queenstown

  This morning, return to rental vehicle to the local or airport depot.