New Zealand Discovery

Day 1: Arrive Auckland

Kia Ora and welcome to New Zealand. On arrival to Auckland collect your Budget rental car before travelling to Auckland City.

Dependant on your flight arrival time you may wish to explore the multi cultural city of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest populated city. 

Included within your documentation you will have a voucher for return ferry transfers to Devonport.  Exchange this for Fullers tickets at the Auckland Ferry terminal located on Quay Street.  Devonport, a charming historic seaside village, on the northern shores of Auckland City, is only 10 minutes by ferry to Auckland City centre. Departures: Regular daily departures every 15-30 minutes.

Tourist Accommodation: The Quadrant, Studio Apartment, 1 night
Deluxe Accommodation: The Heritage Auckland, Superior Room - Hotel Wing, 1 Night

Day 2: Auckland/Bay of Islands (Approx 245km)

Depart Auckland and travel north to the Bay of Islands. 

You may wish to stop along the way for lunch or even a picnic on the beach.

BAY OF ISLANDS - This was the name given by Captain James Cook when he described the area 200 years ago. The Bay, studded with over 150 islands, is a "drowned river system," an area where the sea has invaded and drowned a number of river valleys. Its sheltered waters offer some of the finest boating and fishing to be found anywhere. The Bay of Islands was the site of the first Christian Mission station in New Zealand, as well as having New Zealand's first capital city, Russell, which is now a quiet little seaside village.

Tourist Accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Standard room 2 nights
Deluxe Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands, Superior Waterview Room, 2 Nights

Day 3: Bay of Islands

Today is at your own leisure in the beautiful Bay of Islands. 

You may wish to explore Kerikeri, Doubtless Bay or even take an excursion to Cape Brett Hole in the Rock or Cape Reinga Day Trip. 

Optional activities available:

EXPLORE NZ – ON THE EDGE ULTIMATE DAY SAIL IN THE BAY

Duration : 7 hours

An opportunity to experience the exhilarating ride aboard this impressive high performance catamaran, sailing the Bay of Islands.Built as a high performance flyer, ‘On the Edge’ is capable of speeds in excess of 30 knots. 72ft long, 40 ft wide and a mast that stands over 100ft high, ‘On the Edge’ looks fast even when standing still. You choose whether to join in sailing New Zealand's fastest commercial sailing catamaran or relax and enjoy the action, Island stopover with activities, Snorkeling, swimming, exploring, sunbathing, relaxing, kayaking and hearty lunch onboard and fully licensed bar.Ride on the forward trampoline and enjoy the sensation of this amazing catamaran. You may even have the chance to view dolphins riding the bow wave of the yacht. Amazing photo opportunities and the chance to view abundant sea life, an absolute must for any visitor to the Bay of Islands.At lunchtime the catamaran anchors at one of the many idyllic islands where a traditional kiwi barbeque (often commented on as being the best lunch in the Bay) is provided. Passengers can go ashore and participate in some great island activities, swimming, snorkeling, nature walks, or simply kick back and enjoy the relaxed pace and island atmosphere.

NZD110.00 per person to 30 September 2013

SALT AIR - CAPE REINGA DAY TRIP BY AIR AND 4WD

Duration : 5 hours

Experience the alternative way to see the top of New Zealand in just half a day. The journey starts with a one hour flight by aeroplane to the airfield 20km from the Cape Reinga Lighthouse. From here enjoy a 2.5 hour 4WD tour around the area, including the Te Paki Stream with its giant sand dunes, morning tea, and the Cape Reinga Lighthouse. Back to the airfield and back on board your aircraft for the trip back to Paihia via the spectacular coastal scenery that Northland has to offer.

NZD383.00 per person to 30 Sept 2013

Tourist Accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Standard Room
Deluxe Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands, Superior Waterview Room

Day 4: Bay of Islands to Auckland (Approx. 245km)

Depart the Bay of Islands and return to Auckland.  On your return you may wish to travel down the West Coast via the Hokianga & Kaipara Harbour before returning to Auckland City (6hrs / 400kms)

Tourist Accommodation: The Quadrant, Studio Apartment, 1 night
Deluxe Accommodation: The Heritage Auckland, Superior Room - Hotel Wing, 1 Night

Day 5: Auckland/Pauanui (Approx/ 180km)

Depart Auckland and travel along the Pacific Coast Highway to the Coromandel region.

The Coromandel Peninsula is one of New Zealand’s favourite summertime spots with endless beaches, coves and bush walkways.

COROMANDEL PENINSULA - the Peninsula juts out from the South Auckland coastline to separate the Hauraki Gulf from the Bay of Plenty. Deep in the bush lie abandoned mining machinery, old kauri water dams, and timber milling equipment. The Peninsula is full of contrasts - the sea lapping on quiet golden beaches, or crashing onto jagged rocks at the bottom of a steep cliff. Farmland is fertile in some places, and in other areas has reverted to manuka and gorse.

Tourist Accommodation: Pauanui Pines Motor Lodge, One bedroom unit, 1 night
Deluxe Accommodation: Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort, Bush Chalet (includes breakfast), 1 Night

Day 6: Pauanui/Rotorua (Approx. 250km)

Before departing this morning you may wish to enjoy a refreshing dip in the surf or visit one of the many picturesque spots the Coromandel has to offer. Today travel to the Thermal city of Rotorua.

ROTORUA - located on a volcanic plateau, and formerly a spa town, Rotorua is most famous for its geothermal activity. Rotorua is the main place in New Zealand where aspects of Maori traditions can be seen, from  wood carvings, and meeting houses, to a Hangi Dinner and Maori dances. Native and introduced tree species abound locally and combined with several picturesque lakes, Rotorua is a fascinating mix of culture and nature.

Tourist Accommodation: Ibis Rotorua, Standard Room, 2 nights
Deluxe Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Rotorua, Superior Room, 2 Nights

Day 7: Rotorua

Today is at your leisure in Rotorua. 

Included within your documentation you will have a voucher for admission to Rainbow Springs.  Exchange this at the ticket office on arrival to Nature Park. Breathe deeply, and take in the native bush, ferns, trees and plants that grow and flower all around you. Enjoy the tranquillity of the crystal clear cold water that flows tirelessly from the subterranean springs. Marvel at the silent grace of the magnificent specimens of Rainbow, Brown and Tiger trout, cruising the fern-fringed pools. 

Opening Hours: 8.00 am - 5 pm daily

Tourist Accommodation: Ibis Rotorua, Standard Room
Deluxe Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Rotorua, Superior Room

Day 8: Rotorua/Napier (Approx. 230km)

Depart Rotorua and travel South to Napier located in the Hawkes Bay. 

En route stretch your legs at the lakeside township of Taupo before continuing to Napier. 

Napier is the Art-Deco capital of New Zealand after the entire city was rebuilt in the 1930’s due to a devastating earthquake.  The streets are lined with captivating buildings. 

Tourist Accommodation: Quest Napier, Studio room x 2 nights
Deluxe Accommodation: The County Hotel, Luxury Queen or King Suite, 2 Nights

Day 9: Napier

Today is at your leisure in Napier. 

A chance to explore the city or indulge in some wine tasting at nearby vineyards.

Optional activities:

BAY TOURS: PREMIUM RESERVE MORNING TOUR

10 am - 1pm (including lunch)

The Premium Reserve Tour allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy our full hospitality. Experience a range of Wineries & food attractions. On this tour you will visit Visit 2-3 Wineries & tastings, visit 1 specialty food outlet, relax over a 2 course winery lunch and leave with a take-home goodie bag.

NZD130.00 per person to 30 September 2013

Tourist Accommodation: Quest Napier, Studio room 
Deluxe Accommodation: The County Hotel, Luxury Queen or King Suite

Day 10: Napier to Wellington (Approx. 325km)

Depart Napier and travel to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city located on the Southern tip of the North Island. Wellington is also New Zealand’s capital city for arts and culture. Wellington is an urban paradise surrounded by a glistening harbour on one side and rolling green hills on the other. 

Tourist Accommodation: Ibis Wellington, Standard Room, 1 night
Deluxe Accommodation: Amora Hotel Wellington, Deluxe Room, 1 Night

Day 11: Wellington/Picton to Nelson

Today return your rental car to the Budget representative at Wellington Interislander ferry terminal before checking in for your Interislander Ferry crossing to Picton.

On arrival to Picton collect your Budget rental car and make your own way to your accommodation.

NELSON - with its gardens and gorgeous sunsets, looks across Tasman Bay.  Streets and parks are named after Admiral Nelson and his exploits, as well as the names of the ships that brought the first pioneers over from England. Forestry, fruit and fishing are the main focus of Nelson's port, while to the west, apple orchards, tobacco and hop plantations occupy the land.

Tourist Accommodation: Grand Mercure Monaco, Standard Room, 2 nights
Deluxe Accommodation: Rutherford Hotel Nelson, Executive Room, 2 nights

Day 12: Nelson

Today is at your leisure in Nelson. 

A perfect opportunity to visit the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park with its beautiful beaches and picturesque scenery. The region also offers many harbour cruises, walks and adventure activities.

Optional Activites:

WILSON'S ABEL TASMAN - TONGA ISLAND, BEACHES, BAYS & SEALS GUIDED SEA KAYAKING TRIP EX KAITERITERI

From Kaiteriteri, take a scenic cruise into Tonga Island Marine Reserve. Your guide introduces you to your kayak on the golden expanse of Onetahuti Beach. Explore the Marine Reserve, kayaking to the seal colony on Tonga Island, then paddle your way to Medlands Beach. During the summer season (Oct-Apr), there is time for an optional unguided walk after your paddle. 

Note : Minimum 2 pax.

Valid until 19 Apr 13: NZD153.00 per person

WILSON'S ABEL TASMAN - KAYAKS, SEALS AND WALK DAY TRIP EX NELSON

Duration : Full Day                         

The excursion includes return coach transfers from Nelson to Kaiteriteri. On arrival in Kaiteriteri report for kayak briefing. Explore and have fun with your 1/2 day kayak trip and return to Kaiteriteri by 11.30 am. Join the Water Taxi to the golden sands of Onetahuti, visiting the fascinating seal colony at Tonga Island on the way. Disembark and walk 1.5hrs to Bark Bay where you rejoin the Water Taxi back to Kaiteriteri.

Note : Minimum 2 pax - Operates 20 Oct to 18 Apr only.

20 Oct 12 - 18 Apr 13: NZD184.00 per person

Tourist Accommodation: Grand Mercure Monaco, Standard Room
Deluxe Accommodation: Rutherford Hotel Nelson, Executive Room

Day 13: Nelson to Punakaiki (Approx 297km)

Depart Nelson and travel south along the South Islands rugged West coastline.  Experience the historic coal-mining settlement of Westport before arriving in Punakaiki, which is also located on the coast, home to the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.

PUNAKAIKI - is the gateway to the dramatic limestone country of the Paparoa National Park. It lies halfway between Greymouth and Westport on one of the most spectacular coastal highways.  The Pancake Rocks that Punakaiki is famous for are limestone formations that began forming 30 million years ago. The seabed was raised above sea level by earthquakes to form the coastal cliffs and coastline. The sea, wind and rain have since etched out the soft layers to form the unusual rock formations we see today.  When conditions are right, large ocean swells thunder into the caverns beneath the rocks and huge water spouts blast skywards through the blowholes creating a spectacular sight.  Tourism activities in the area include canoe adventures, horse trekking, caving and guided walks to name just a few.

Tourist Accommodation: Punakaiki Resort, Hotel Seaview Room, 1 night
Deluxe Accommodation: Punakaiki Resort, Eco Suite, 1 Night

Day 14: Punakaiki to Franz Josef (Approx. 185km)

Depart the Westland region and continue along the coastline to Franz Josef Glacier.  On arrival you may wish to take a scenic flight over the spectacular Glacier.

Optional Activities:

AORAKI SKI PLANE FLIGHT - TWIN GLACIER WITH SNOW LANDING

Duration : Approx 40 mins                           

Take a breathtaking ski-plane flight from Franz Josef and fly over lowland forest to the Coast, and then over both West Coast Glaciers (Fox and Franz Josef) landing on the head of one depending on the conditions. You should also have magnificent views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.

To 30 Sept 2013: NZD315.00 per person

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER GUIDES - GLACIER VALLEY WALK

Duration : 3hrs. Departs 1015 hr + 1415 hr (year round).                 

A 3 kilometre interpretive walk to the Terminal face exploring the lower reaches of the Franz Josef Glacier - no ice walk - but does include a bonus Mountains to the Sea DVD.

To 30 Sep 2013: Nett to you: NZD63.00 per person

Tourist Accommodation: Punga Grove, One bedroom Unit, 1 night
Deluxe Accommodation: Scenic Circle Franz Josef Glacier Hotel, Douglas Wing Room, 1 Night

Day 15: Franz Josef to Queenstown (Approx 407km)

Depart Franz Josef Glacier and travel to New Zealand’s adventure capital Queenstown. Travel through the Haast pass, the lowest pass over the main divide and look out for the cheeky Kea’s, a native New Zealand mountain parrot. There are many spots you can stop along the way for those fantastic postcard shots. As you approach Queenstown you will travel through the Gibbston Valley, famous for its many wineries.

Within your documentation you will have a voucher for wine tasting at Gibbston Valley Wines.  Exchange this on arrival to the vineyard and enjoy sampling of 3 wines.  Wines can be sampled while you browse, then buy your favourites in single bottles, gift packs or by the case. 

Times: 10:00am to 5:00pm daily.

Tourist Accommodation: Garden Court Suites & Apartments, Studio Unit, 2 nights
Deluxe Accommodation: The Heritage Queenstown, Deluxe Lakeview, 2 Nights

Day 16: Queenstown

Today is at your leisure in Queenstown.  A chance to experience some of the many activities available on your doorstep.

Tourist Accommodation: Garden Court Suites & Apartments, Studio Unit
Deluxe Accommodation: The Heritage Queenstown, Deluxe Lakeview

Day 17: Queenstown/Te Anau (Approx 183km)

Depart Queenstown and travel to the shores of Lake Te Anau.  We suggest today taking a trip to Milford Sound.  While visiting Milford Sound take the opportunity to cruise the sound and experience the spectacular Mitre Peak up close (not included in quotation).  Return to Te Anau for the evening.

Optional Activities:

REAL JOURNEYS - MILFORD SOUND NATURE CRUISE EX MILFORD

Enjoy a nature cruise with Real Journeys on Milford Sound, and the chance to see wildlife, rainforest, mountains and waterfalls.

Departs 13:25hrs (Nov-Apr only), 13:15hrs (May-Sept only) or 10:30am & 12:30pm (Oct-Apr only)

To 30 Sep 2013 NZD89.00 per person

REAL JOURNEYS - TE ANAU CAVES TRIP

Duration : 2.25hrs                      

Cruise across Lake Te Anau to Cavern House located on the western shores. Hear stories about the natural history and early pioneers in the region. Join your nature guide on arrival for your tour which includes the Tunnel Burn stream that flows through the caves system. Deep underground, groups are transferred into small boats to drift silently along the river below a magical display of the New Zealand glowworm. Above ground, your guide will explain in detail aspects about the caves in the interpretation centre. Return to Te Anau by boat.                          

Departs 1400, and 1900 all year, 17.45 and 20.15 Oct - Apr. Not a suitable excursion for Infants.

01 Oct 12 – 30 Apr 13 11: NZD 66.00 per person

01 May – 30 Sept 13: NZD 57.00 per person

Tourist Accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau, Standard Room, 1 night
Deluxe Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas, Lakeview Room, 1 Night

Day 18: Te Anau/Dunedin (Approx. 292km)

Depart Te Anau and enjoy the scenic drive to Dunedin.  Being the Scottish capital of New Zealand and the home of Otago University, Dunedin is a city rich with culture and heritage.  On arrival you may wish to visit the local Penguin & Albatross colonies.

DUNEDIN - often called the "Edinburgh of the South", Dunedin was settled by the Scottish settlers that came to New Zealand. It is a city of spires, of towers, gables and roofs with turrets, and gracious, generally stone, buildings. Dunedin is also home to the Albatross and Penguin colonies, plus many species of New Zealand wildlife.

Tourist Accommodation: Mercure Leisure Lodge, Superior Room, 1 night
Deluxe Accommodation: Scenic Circle Southern Cross Hotel, Superior Run of House Room, 1 Night

Day 19: Dunedin/Christchurch (Approx. 374km)

Depart Dunedin and travel north to Christchurch, the Garden City.    

Tourist Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Cotswold, Standard Room, 1 night
Deluxe Accommodation: Pavillions Hotel, Superior Room, 1 Night

Day 20: Depart Christchurch

Today return your rental car to Christchurch Airport before checking in for your departure flight.

Rates are per person (including GST currently at 15%, subject to change)

Tourist Class

Deluxe Class

NZD10.00 per person documentation fee to be applied to the above rates.

Travel is to be completed within the season.  Any travel that falls over both seasons will be priced on application.

Costs include

• Accommodation in hotels as specified, share twin subject to availability.
• Goods & Services Tax 15%, subject to change
• Budget rental car throughout (CDAR for 2 pax / FDAR for 4 pax). Full rental terms & conditions will be provided at time of documentation. 
• Basic vehicle insurance (subject to insurance excess)
• Gibbston Valley Wine Tasting

Costs exclude

• Airfares National or International
• Airport Tax
• Personal expenses & tips
• Drinks during meals (except water/tea/coffee)
• Any items of personal nature
• Optional activities
• Foreign speaking assistance
• Fuel for car
• Additional rental car charges
• Insurance excess

Subject to

• Subject to surcharges beyond our control
• Accommodation subject to availability
• Minimum 2 pax travelling
• Hotel surcharges as per our on line tariff
• Increase in Goods & Services Tax, currently 15%
• Special Event / Holiday surcharges